Sir Jim Ratcliffe: Manchester United co-owner avoids FA accusation over immigration comments

Earlier on Friday, Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick said he was “proud of what the club represents” in a pre-match press conference.

“I’m proud of what the club represents and what it has done for a long time,” Carrick said. “I’m really aware of that.

“Sir Jim made his statement and the club made a statement on the back of it. It’s not my place to add to that.”

“What I can say is that I have been at this club for many years.

“Equality, diversity and respect for each other is something we aspire to achieve every day.

I have traveled the world and I know what this club means to so many people.

“I’m fully aware of the responsibility, and we try to do that every day. I’m proud of what the club represents and what it has done for a long time.”

Carrick, who was appointed as coach for the remainder of the season following the sacking of Ruben Amorim, wore the distinctive green Unite for Access armband.

The organization aims to raise awareness and “advance equality for a more inclusive matchday experience for sports fans with disabilities”.

“I think part of being at this club is that we understand what it is like globally and the responsibilities we have within this,” Carrick added.

“I can only speak from my personal experience having been here for a long time with many different managers and staff.

“The fans may have stayed largely the same, but we’ve picked up some new fans over the years, from all different backgrounds. It’s something we’re very aware of and so am I.”