Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso says he has “greater understanding” for Michael Carrick in his role as Manchester United manager, with Carrick under pressure after a series of unsatisfactory results.

The two managers will meet when Chelsea host Manchester United on 31 October.

Alonso and Carrick are colleagues in football management, although their teams arrive at the match in contrasting positions in the table. Chelsea are fifth, while Manchester United are 16th.

The Chelsea manager’s comments come as Carrick faces scrutiny over United’s recent form. Alonso used his own experience of coaching to explain his attitude towards the Manchester United boss, saying: “I have greater understanding for him as a coach.”