Sky: Carrick edges closer to permanent Man Utd role as two top candidates rule themselves out

Michael Carrick applauds the travelling Man United fans after losing to Newcastle. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick might be the favourite for the permanent role based on the current circumstances.The 44-year-old was selected to replace Ruben Amorim in January when the management decided to wield the axe on the Portuguese’s turbulent 14-month reign.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe Englishman was appointed as interim coach until the end of the season, but his results have already cemented him among the favourites for the permanent role.Man Utd have yet to open talks with any Carrick replacementsIn recent weeks, several pundits, including Wayne Rooney, have argued in Carrick’s favour. In his first 10 matches in charge, the tactician steered Man Utd towards seven victories, while registering two draws, and only one defeat.Nevertheless, the hierarchy has been coy about confirming the interim coach prematurely. After all, the former management had arguably jumped the gun too soon by tying down Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a long-term deal following a blistering start to his initially temporary tenure, only for the results to plummet afterwards.But while United aren’t willing to hand Carrick the job just yet, Sky Sports reveal that the club directors haven’t contacted any other candidates either.As the source explains, INEOS are open to replacing the incumbent coach with a more accomplished profile who has a big resume.But at this stage, finding one remains a daunting task, especially with Thomas Tuchel renewing his contract with England, and Carlo Ancelotti announcing his desire to stay with the Brazilian national team.Is Michael Carrick the favourite for permanent Man United role?Sky believes that the circumstances could do Carrick a favour and boost his chances of earning a multi-year deal.In the meantime, the former Middlesbrough boss has been doing his part. Since his arrival, Man Utd have become a steady ship, dispelling all the off-pitch drama that engulfed the club during the previous regimes.The Wallsend native has also solidified the historic rapport between United’s first team and the academy, as he and his technical collaborators insist on attending the matches of the club’s youth ranks whenever they have the chance.For instance, Carrick was a bystander at Carrington when Man Utd U18 beat Blackburn’s academy by three unanswered goals. He was also on the sidelines for the U16s, watching his son, Jacey, in action.So despite his limited resume, the former MUFC midfielder seemingly ticks all the boxes, and if he manages to lead the club back to the Champions League, few would argue against his merit.