MANCHESTER: English club Manchester United captain Michael Carrick said on Thursday that anything less than the league title is a failure in the upcoming season. Talking to the media, the united captain said that everyone at the Old Trafford have their sights set on the ultimate prize in England. “I can’t get my head around that, to say top-four is acceptable, you can’t expect to win the league every year. But you’ve got to set out to do that,” said Carrick. “We need to be aiming for the top. As players, we understand that, and that’s what we’re geared for as a club,” he added. The 35-year-old further elaborated that he has played alongside the greats of the game and what he has learned is that the expectations and standards at the club are exceptional. “I’m well aware of the standards that need to be set at this club. I’ve been fortunate to have played with some great leaders and characters in my career here and I’ve learned a lot,” said Carrick. Speaking about Manchester United’s performances in recent years, Carrick was quick to admit that the team has not matched the standards it is expected to, but feels the team can still make a comeback. “There have been times in the league when standards have dropped, there’s no hiding from that. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get back there again if you keep doing the right things,” he said. Manchester United continue their pre-season when they face European champions Real Madrid at Levi’s Stadium.