We'll bounce back from Euro wake-up, says Carrick

Michael Carrick insists Manchester Uniteds European wake-up call will ensure they wont take Premier League newboys Norwich lightly at Old Trafford.Manchester United head into Saturdays game on the back of successive draws with Stoke and Basel.Yet while they were content with a share of the spoils in the Potteries, Sir Alex Fergusons side turned what should have been a winning Champions League position against Swiss side Basel into a minefield.United were coasting as they opened up a two-goal advantage, only for them to collapse with Ashley Youngs last-gasp goal sparing their blushes in a 3-3 draw.But instead of being thankful for their late escape, England midfielder Carrick says the setback will only refocus the minds of the title winners for the visit of the Canaries."It was a bit of a shock after being 2-0 up and then almost losing the game," Carrick said. "I cant recall, if ever, that happening to us. But there are no excuses -- we threw it away."I am sure it is a one-off and we will bounce back. It was a wake-up call for sure."We always believe we can score in matches as we create the chances. But we realise we might not be so fortunate next time and its perhaps a lesson learned for the Norwich game."Danny Welbeck, who entered the record books by becoming the first home-produced United striker to score in Europe for more than 40 years with two goals against Basel, is revelling in the chance handed to him by Ferguson."The manager shows time and time again he will give local players a chance and it is then up to the individual to take it. I hope I can," Welbeck said."I dont know whether it is harder for local boys up front to make it. I can only look at myself and take my opportunities when they come."I hope I have done enough to play against Norwich."Welbeck is set to retain his place with strikers Wayne Rooney (hamstring) and Javier Hernandez (dead leg) facing a battle to be fit. Its not only in attack though where Manchester United have been hit, with defensive trio Nemanja Vidic, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling all rated as doubtful.Norwich manager Paul Lambert insists his players wont be overawed when they head to the champions.Lambert branded the Canaries' Old Trafford date as the ultimate test after overcoming Sunderland on Monday."I knew if we could just beat Sunderland then we go to Old Trafford with a bit more faith and feeling a bit more buoyant rather than going up there and worrying about getting turned over."I hear people say go and enjoy it but you can only enjoy it if you go and can hold your own."In my view, Manchester United are probably the best team in Britain at the minute and along with Barcelona one of the best teams in Europe. "That is the magnitude of our achievement in getting into this league. No-one is going to expect us to win anything there. "The lads will love the atmosphere and the stadium and well go up there and give it everything weve got. But it doesnt mean we want to go there and make up the numbers."James Vaughan, among a host of summer signings, is facing a lengthy spell out with a knee problem. Vaughan joins the likes of Elliott Ward, Zak Whitbread and Daniel Ayala on the sidelines.

Source: AFP