Michael Carrick says that critics need to "calm down" over Jose Mourinho's team selection after Manchester United got back to winning ways with a triumph in the EFL Cup.

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has called on critics to "calm down" over Jose Mourinho's team selection.

The Red Devils sealed a 3-1 victory over Northampton Town in the third round of the EFL Cup at Sixfields Stadium this evening.

United have been under the spotlight after losing three consecutive games last week, and reports have emerged that the players are unhappy with Mourinho's public and private criticism of the team.

Tonight, the Portuguese coach made nine changes to the team, resting the likes of Paul Pogba and Eric Bailly, while Wayne Rooney started up front and Carrick was handed his first start of the season.

The midfielder may have staked a claim for a spot in the side for this weekend's game against Leicester City after getting on the scoresheet tonight.

"Just before half time we took our foot off the gas and let [Northampton] get back in to it which we were disappointed with," Carrick told Sky Sports News.

"I'm not going to change my game and Jose knows my strengths, you play some games you miss some games. People need to calm down over the squad changes - we're all in it together.

"Sometimes you play other times you don't it's a squad game and whoever plays Saturday will hopefully go in to it with confidence."

Ander Herrera and Marcus Rashford were also among the goals for United this evening.