Reds must be quick off mark

Michael Carrick has urged Manchester United to make a flying start to their Premier League campaign tonight.

United take on Newcastle knowing that main title rivals Chelsea trounced West Brom 6-0 on the opening day of the season.

Carrick says United will have to follow suit, because ground lost in the early weeks might prove hard to make up.

"You cannot afford to drop too many points," said the midfielder.

"Last season was a bit of a freak in terms of how many games both us and Chelsea lost and how many points were dropped.”

Hailing from Wallsend, a meeting with Newcastle is always a special occasion for Carrick.

“Newcastle will be flying," said Carrick. "They are back in the Premier League and what better place to start than Old Trafford?”