Michael Carrick hopes Manchester United can complete a 100% record in their Champions League qualifying group when they face Roma on Wednesday.United's last-gasp success over Sporting Lisbon a fortnight ago means they are guaranteed top spot in Group F - with Roma runners-up - no matter what the outcome in the Stadio Olimpico.

At least the lack of edge to the game should dampen down the potential for violence after the trouble which marred United's last visit to the Italian capital in March.

Ferguson is determined his young side will give a good account of themselves and with five wins already, United could follow Barcelona, Spartak Moscow, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan as the only ever six-hitters in the group stages.

But Carrick knows those wins would count for nothing when the action really hots up in the knock-out phase.

"Winning all six matches would be some achievement," said the former Tottenham midfielder.

"It would send out a statement saying we are a very good team with confidence and self belief.

"But in terms of whether it will mean much in the season as a whole, I am not so sure.

"Winning is a good habit to be in. The longer we keep our momentum going the better. But when the big games come round next spring we have to produce that winning form all over again."

Carrick is one of only three members of the side that started against Derby on Saturday to even make the trip.

Another, Wayne Rooney captains United for only the second time while the third, contract rebel Wes Brown, may be required for defensive cover on the bench.

Yet Ferguson could still name a side containing seven full internationals, a measure of the strength in depth Carrick is convinced can carry United a long way this season.

"At this stage we look very strong," he said.

"We have already proved this season whoever steps in to play is more than capable.

"In February and March, we will need as many players fit as possible and that is when the squad will really come into its own, hopefully with everyone fresh and raring to go."

Security has been tightened as a result of last season's trouble, although Ferguson is optimistic there will be no repeat.

"Everyone who loves the game does not want to see the incidents we saw last year," he said.

"Roma don't want it and Manchester United do not want it. The reputations of both clubs are very important.

"We dearly hope there are no problems and some lessons will have been learned from last year."

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