Manchester United’s trips to Stamford Bridge over the past decade have usually been fairly stressful occasions for both clubs. More often than not, both sides have been challenging for the title, and winning three points, while denying the other team any points, could be a huge boost in claiming the title.

Ahead of this fixture today, United are fifth in the table and Chelsea are 13th, six points above the relegation zone.

Carrick concedes this is a strange position for both clubs to be in, but won’t underestimate the opposition.

It’s quite incredible. Over the last 10 years or so we’ve both been pretty much going at it for trophies – they’ve won things and we’ve won things. Certainly after what they achieved last season you wouldn’t have expected them to be in the position they’re in and I’m sure they’d say the same thing. So it’s a bit strange but I’m sure when we get out on that pitch on Sunday it won’t be about who is where in the league, it won’t have any effect on the game. Chelsea against United at Stamford Bridge is a big game and we need to improve our record down there.

United don’t have a great record at Stamford Bridge, but Carrick is hoping we can change that today.

In fairness I don’t think many teams have had a good record there, certainly over the last 10 years. They’re very hard to beat there. But over the years you could say the same about Old Trafford and teams finding it difficult to get a result there. This season has been different throughout the league in terms of results because it’s been so unpredictable. Hopefully we can go there on Sunday and turn the history books upside down and come away with a win.