Sheringham says Ferguson would refocus United on belief and responsibility

January 31, 2026 Oliver Obel

Manchester United’s latest period under interim management has revived familiar comparisons with the club’s most successful era. According to Teddy Sheringham, the early signs suggest a mindset shift that echoes Sir Alex Ferguson’s approach during challenging moments.

The former United striker believes Michael Carrick has focused less on drastic tactical changes and more on restoring perspective inside the dressing room.

A familiar message from the past

Speaking to SPORTbible via online casino provider Mr Q, Sheringham said Carrick’s handling of the squad mirrors how Ferguson often responded when standards slipped.

"I don't think you can go in there shouting and hollering," Sheringham said.

"I think Michael's just gone in there and put his arm around people and encouraged people, and told them what might be expected from the Manchester United supporters. Because sometimes you lose that."

Sheringham explained that Ferguson regularly returned to the same theme when results faltered.

"You've got to understand what a privilege it is to play for Manchester United. That's where Sir Alex always reverted to if we had any dodgy performances."

Carrick’s immediate impact

Carrick began his interim spell with a surprise 2-0 win over Manchester City in Saturday’s derby. The former midfielder stepped in after Ruben Amorim was dismissed in early January, bringing an end to a tenure that lasted less than 14 months.

The result provided an immediate lift, and Sheringham felt the difference in attitude was noticeable compared with the closing weeks under Amorim.

Confidence breeds momentum

To illustrate the shift, Sheringham referenced a well-known line from former England manager Terry Venables.

"Terry Venables used to say whenever you're losing games, you can't see yourself winning, and whenever you're winning games, you can't see yourself losing," he recalled.

Few anticipated such a performance against City, but Sheringham said Carrick’s instructions appeared simple and effective.

"No-one expected that performance against Manchester City, but he's [Carrick] obviously told them to get out there and put the pressure on City, and get people in the box and create chances, and it worked."

Another test awaits

United travel to face Premier League leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, with Carrick taking charge of his second match. He is the 10th manager to serve in a defined interim role since Ferguson retired at the end of the 2012/13 season.

Reporting cited by SPORTbible indicates the club plans to appoint a permanent manager in the summer. That timeline is understood to have played a role in Carrick being appointed ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who was seeking a longer-term return.

For Sheringham, the key will be whether the renewed confidence carries forward.

"Now, all of a sudden, they've had that good result, and they're going to Arsenal with optimism rather than pessimism," he said.
"It's amazing how quickly things turn around."

Sources: SPORTbible