Hitman Falcao ready to fire

MICHAEL Carrick has backed Radamel Falcao to hit the goal trail and spearhead Manchester United’s title charge.

But the midfielder admitted they blew their chance to extend their winning streak to seven games after drawing 1–1 at Aston Villa.

United were held at Villa Park on Saturday, despite the hosts having Gabby Agbonlahor sent off.

Christian Benteke had put Villa ahead against the run of play before Falcao scored his second United goal to level.

And England man Carrick believes the Colombian, who has struggled for fitness this season, is now ready to fire.

“He’s scored so many goals over the years and you feel when he gets the chance he’ll score,” he said. “It was a terrific header, so I’m pleased for him.

“After being out for a bit that’s him back and hopefully he can go on a bit of a streak now.”

Wayne Rooney, who was deployed in midfield behind Robin van Persie and Falcao, agreed. He added: “It was a great run by Ashley (Young), a great ball and a great header. It was a nice goal all around and I'm pleased for Falcao.”

But Carrick insisted the draw, which left United seven points behind joint leaders Chelsea and Manchester City and third in the Barclays Premier League, was not enough.

“We came here to win so we feel we let two points go. We controlled the first half and went a goal down from nothing,” Carrick added.

“We didn’t create enough around their box to be a real threat. The second half was better and we felt we could go on and win it, but the final cross didn’t really go for us.”