The Sport Matrix: Tuesday 11 February 2014

Carrick: We care more than anyone

Michael Carrick has defended himself, and his Manchester United team-mates after their commitment was questioned following a poor run of results. “It isn’t a case of not caring. We care just as much, if not more, than anybody else,” said the midfielder.

We don’t spend big like City, says Jose

Jose Mourinho last night hit back at Manuel Pellegrini after the Manchester City boss accused Chelsea of spending more than any other Premier League team. “The message he wanted to pass out is that we’re also big spenders like them, but that’s not true,” said Jose.

Touré escapes FA ban despite kick

The Football Association has decided to take no action against Manchester City’s Yaya Touré despite the midfielder seemingly kicking Norwich’s Ricky van Wolfswinkel on Saturday. Swansea’s Craig Bellamy has been charged after a clash with Jonathan de Guzman. MORE

No guarantees for Ravel at West Ham

Sam Allardyce has told Ravel Morrison he will have to fight to get back into the West Ham team once he returns from a groin injury. “He needs to get back and train with the squad. He has to realise now everybody is fit there is severe competition here,” said Allardyce.

Mixed day on the ice for GB’s curlers

Eve Muirhead, who leads a British team that are favourites for curling gold, could not inspire an opening win over main rivals Sweden. David Murdoch’s men began with victory over Russia but, after a long day, they also lost to the Swedes. MORE

Whelbourne crash mars historic final

After becoming the first Briton to reach the short-track speed skating 1500m final in history, Jack Whelbourne was sent sprawling across the ice following a trip over a block that marked the course. He picked up no serious injury, luckily.

Morgan snubs IPL to seek Test chance

Eoin Morgan has opted out of the Indian Premier League this year as he attempts to stake his claim to replace Kevin Pietersen in England’s Test team. The Irish-born batsman will look to impress selectors playing for his County side Middlesex. MORE

Pietersen returns to the Surrey fray

Axed England batsman Kevin Pietersen has signed a new contract to play with Surrey this season. The 33-year-old will play in the revamped Twenty20 Blast, but has not ruled out playing in longer forms of the game at the Kia Oval.

McIlroy plans to emulate Mickelson

Rory McIlroy is aiming to follow in Phil Mickelson’s footsteps after confirming his Scottish Open place. Mickelson won the event last year before going on to secure the Open at Muirfield seven days later.

Sam Wallace

Defensive shambles, difficulty to attract the biggest names, while their domestic campaign is fading away. Manchester United and David Moyes have endured their worst start to a season since 1990.