Sunderland Preview: Carrick's Press Conference - A Look Ahead to the Black Cats' Clash with Preston North End
The Black Cats are gearing up for a crucial Championship clash against Preston North End on Saturday, and manager Michael Carrick addressed the media in his pre-match press conference.
Here are the key takeaways:
Carrick's Assessment of Preston
Carrick acknowledged the tough task ahead, highlighting Preston's strong defensive record and their ability to "make it very difficult" for opponents. He also praised Ryan Lowe's team for their "work ethic and commitment", suggesting Sunderland will need to be at their best to secure a result.
"They're a good side, a well-organized side. They make it very difficult for you to break them down. Ryan's done a great job with them, they've got some good players, and they work hard," said Carrick.
Focus on the Process
Carrick reiterated his focus on improving the team's performance week by week, rather than solely focusing on results. He stressed the importance of "working hard" and "getting better" as a collective.
"We're just focused on ourselves, our performances, and trying to improve every week. We want to be a team that's hard to play against, a team that's organized and disciplined," he stated.
Injury Update
Carrick provided a positive update on the injury front, confirming no new injuries and a relatively clean bill of health for the squad. This bodes well for Sunderland's hopes of fielding a strong starting lineup against Preston.
Building Momentum
Despite recent struggles, Sunderland have shown glimpses of potential, and Carrick stressed the importance of building momentum heading into the final stages of the season.
"We need to keep working hard, keep believing in ourselves, and keep pushing forward," he added.
Looking Ahead to Preston
Sunderland's clash with Preston North End promises to be a tight and competitive encounter. Carrick's emphasis on defensive solidity and hard work suggests a pragmatic approach, while Preston's strong defensive record will make it a challenge for the Black Cats.
The upcoming game will be a vital test for Sunderland's ambitions to climb the Championship table. With a full squad and a focused approach, they will be hoping to secure a positive result at the Stadium of Light.
