London - Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal believes that the absence of England midfielder Michael Carrick has been a significant factor in his side's recent Premier League slump.
Carrick, 33, suffered a calf injury during the 4-2 win over Manchester City on April 12 and has missed the last three matches, all of which United have lost.
United have fallen to Chelsea, Everton and West Bromwich Albion, surprise 1-0 victors at Old Trafford last weekend, having won their previous six matches.