Carrick seeks to build on revival as Man United chase return to elite

MANCHESTER, England, Aug 14 : For the first time in years, optimism rather than uncertainty surrounds Manchester United heading into a new Premier League campaign.Manager Michael Carrick's appointment on a permanent basis has given the club a sense of direction after an outstanding spell as interim manager transformed their fortunes last season.Taking charge last January, the former United midfielder oversaw a remarkable revival that lifted them to third place in the Premier League and secured a return to the Champions League.Carrick's greatest achievement was restoring balance and confidence to a squad that had looked disjointed. United became harder to beat, more coherent in possession and far more threatening going forward. His familiarity with the club's traditions and expectations als