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Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has revealed the reasoning behind the club’s decision to hold a mid-season training camp in Ireland.

Unusual move

United made their way to Ireland at the start of the week for a four-day intensive training camp ahead of their Monday meeting with arch-rivals Leeds United.

Typically, United’s packed fixture list prevents them from holding mid-season training camps or friendlies. However, their lack of European football this term has opened the door to that possibility.

United’s reduced workload and fixture schedule has also demanded the club be creative in trying to keep the players match sharp and in top physical condition.

Patrick Dorgu and Lisandro Martinez were confirmed in Carrick’s 25-man travelling squad. Martinez has been training alongside his teammates, whereas Dorgu remains on an individual programme. Diogo Dalot and Tom Heaton were left out due to illness. Matthijs de Ligt was also excluded as he continues with his rehabilitation for a back injury.

Carrick’s assistant, Steve Holland, emphasised the importance of United’s Dublin trip and now, the United caretaker boss has also had his say on it.

Carrick’s verdict

Speaking to club media, Carrick said about the decision to go...