Michael Carrick has released a statement on social media having been sacked by Manchester United and replaced by Mauricio Pochettino

Michael Carrick thanked the Manchester United players for their efforts during his time as Old Trafford boss as the former United manager released a statement on social media following his sacking this week.

Carrick was axed on Thursday and has been replaced in the Old Trafford dugout by Mauricio Pochettino who will leave his job as USA manager and officially start work next week.

Carrick had overseen just one Premier League win in the opening 10 games of the season with United in the relegation zone. He has paid the price for a poor run of results with his job and on Friday released a statement on Instagram reflecting on his time in charge.

His statement in full reads: "I've had the immense privilege of leading Manchester United, the football club that I love. There are very few who get to live that and feel it, and for that I'm incredibly grateful.

"With that comes huge responsibility, and to be at Manchester United, you need to understand exactly what that means. It's different to anywhere else.

"Ultimately, you need to push to be the best, but there is a culture, there are values and there are behaviours that you have to live by and respect, which have been built over long period of time.

"It's a football club that is unique, with substance and history that cannot be ignored. This is what inspired me every single day.

"I want to say a big thank you to the supporters. I must say, you are a special, rare breed.

"We've had some great times this year and moments we'll all remember. The best thing about being in my position was seeing so many of you lose yourselves in the emotion of those moments, leaving the stadium desperate to come back again next time.

"I just wanted to give you something back. That love never dies.

"I know we've not had the results lately, but you've shown me nothing but love and support in times when the easiest thing, and what most end up doing, would be to turn the other way. That means more than a win or two. That's what makes you who you are. That's why I fell in love with his club all those years ago.

Make sure you never miss the latest Manchester United news and opinion by making Manchester Evening News one of your Google preferred sources.

"A special thank you to my coaching staff. You gave me everything you had, every single day, and I couldn't have asked for any more. I'm incredibly grateful for your loyalty, hard work and support throughout.

"To all the staff behind the scenes, thank you for everything you do for this football club. So much of your work goes unseen, but it never goes unappreciated.

"And to the players, thank you for your efforts and the moments we've shared. I wish you all the very best for what's ahead.

"I want nothing but success for Manchester United. This club has been such a big part of my life and that will never change. I'll always be proud to have played my part and I'll always want the very best for it.

"I'll be right there with you from now on, watching from the sidelines, cheering the lads on."