The ghosts of 13 May 2012 still linger at Old Trafford, and Sunderland fans know exactly how to stir them up. When the Black Cats visited Manchester United in October, their supporters broke into a familiar chant: "You thought it was yours, you thought it was yours, we heard you singing, then Sergio scored." It's the kind of cheeky football banter that echoes through stadiums every weekend—but for Michael Carrick, it hits a little closer to home.

That unforgettable day saw Sunderland snatch the Premier League title from United's grasp in the most dramatic fashion, as Sergio Agüero's stoppage-time goal for Manchester City sealed the trophy in the final seconds. Now, as United prepare for only their sixth league visit to the Stadium of Light since that moment, the memory remains raw for those who lived it.

Carrick was on the pitch that day, watching helplessly as the title slipped away. He was joined in that painful moment by Jonny Evans, who now serves as part of Carrick's coaching team. Footage from the aftermath shows the pair applauding the traveling supporters, with Carrick deep in conversation with Ashley Young, trying to make sense of what had just unfolded.

Time, as they say, heals most wounds. Carrick was part of the United side that returned to Sunderland the following season and won, on their way to securing a historic 20th league title. But as Saturday's clash approaches, you can bet that gnawing memory will make victory just a little sweeter.

"Obviously, it was a one-off kind of feeling," Carrick reflected. "It wasn't during the game, it wasn't until after. I didn't really know exactly where the land was lying at that point. It wasn't until we walked towards the edge of the pitch and had to deal with what was thrown out. It's in the past, but, yeah, it definitely sticks in the memory."