Sources: How Michael Carrick really feels about Man United's start to the season

Michael Carrick has been "frustrated" by Manchester United's slow start to the Premier League season, sources have told Football Insider.

Despite batting away suggestions that results so far have been below expectations, the boss had hoped for more out of his opening three games as permanent manager.

A 2-0 defeat to Hull City on the opening day of the season, and the 2-2 draw against Everton last time out, have led to questions being asked of the performances.

However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Man United must be given time for their squad to gel after a busy transfer window.

Carrick oversaw an overhaul of his midfield options this summer, with Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba brought in to strengthen the position.

There is an acceptance that the new players will take time to get to their best level, but ahead of the Manchester derby against Man City, there is hope that will happen soon.

How do Man United feel about Michael Carrick's start?

Football Insider revealed on 12 September that Man United had hoped for a stronger start to the Premier League season than they have endured so far this term.

The Red Devils have won one, drawn one and lost one of their opening three games, with mixed results and performances leading to some early frustrations.

Carrick has shared in those frustrations, however, and believes that with time to gel his squad could become competitive once again.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "When you manage a club like Manchester United, the expectations are huge and that's no different for Michael Carrick.

"I'm sure Carrick will be frustrated himself not to get more points on the board already from their first three games of the Premier League season

"But it's a long season ahead and obviously there's a new midfield that's bedding in at Old Trafford as well, they want to give them time to gel and get used to playing together.

"It'll take time for these new players to settle in and I'm sure we'll see an improvement and an upturn in United's fortunes sooner rather than later.

"The board are willing to give Carrick time to find some consistency and get the players performing at their best."

Are Man United backing Carrick to succeed?

Despite the frustrations surrounding what has been a strong start to the season, any suggestions that Carrick could be under pressure at this stage have been dismissed.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that the boss still has the full backing of the board and there are no concerns about his position as manager.

The Red Devils approached the season with optimism following last year's Champions League qualification, and Carrick is still being heavily backed after his successful period.

Having impressed during his interim spell last season, Carrick has plenty of credit in the bank, with the board willing to give him time to build on his positive plans.

While results haven't been the best at this early stage of the season, there have been no concerns about any long-term issues which might force the club into a decision.