Manchester United’s comeback against Roma delivered a much-needed result for Michael Carrick after a difficult run of form.

The Red Devils had gone into the Champions League fixture under pressure to respond, having struggled to win games this season.

Carrick made two changes to the side that lost to Chelsea, with Kobbie Mainoo returning to the starting XI.

The academy graduate was paired with summer signing Carlos Baleba in midfield.

Carlos Baleba had only recently begun to establish himself after an ankle problem disrupted the opening weeks of his United career.

The Cameroon international’s arrival from Brighton had been viewed as an important addition to the club’s midfield options.

Michael Carrick confirms major Carlos Baleba injury setback

However, United’s celebrations after their dramatic 3-2 victory over Roma were tempered by concern over Baleba, who was forced off with a hamstring injury early in the second half.

The midfielder had shown encouraging signs before the setback, offering bursts of energy from the centre of the pitch and looking to drive United forward.

His most promising moment came shortly after the interval, when he powered into the Roma penalty area and appeared capable of creating a goalscoring opportunity.

Instead, Baleba pulled up sharply and immediately reached for the back of his thigh.

He received treatment before making his way off, visibly disappointed, with Youri Tielemans introduced as his replacement.

Carrick confirmed the injury after the match but admitted United would need further assessment before determining how long the 22-year-old could be unavailable.

“I haven’t got any more news on Carlos at this stage, but it’s his hamstring, so we’ll just have to assess what that looks like.

“Initially, it doesn’t look great,” the United head coach said.

The injury is particularly frustrating given Baleba’s difficult introduction to life at Old Trafford.

He arrived from Brighton with an ankle problem that affected his availability during the opening weeks of the season.

Hamstring injuries can vary considerably depending on their severity; mild strains may settle within days, while more significant injuries can require several weeks or even months of rehabilitation.

United will wait for the results of further assessments before knowing whether Baleba faces a short absence or a longer spell on the sidelines.

His availability will be a concern ahead of Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Aston Villa.