Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Manchester United are close to appointing Michael Carrick as their permanent head coach after the former midfielder was offered a two-year contract following an impressive spell in interim charge.
According to ESPN, Carrick’s representatives were in Manchester this week for talks over a deal that also includes the option of an additional year. The 44-year-old has emerged as United’s preferred choice to replace Ruben Amorim, who was dismissed in January after a difficult run of results.
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Carrick has overseen a dramatic improvement since stepping in on a temporary basis. United were sixth in the Premier League when Amorim departed, but the club have climbed to third under Carrick after winning 10 of their 15 league matches during his tenure. With two games remaining, United are six points clear of Liverpool and have secured a return to the Champions League.
The club are keen to conclude the deal before Sunday’s meeting with Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford as preparations begin for a crucial summer rebuild.
Carrick, however, remained guarded when asked about his future during Friday’s press conference, insisting a resolution would arrive soon.
“There’s two games to go; apart from that there’s not much else to say,” Carrick said. “The situation is pretty clear for us all. Same as in preparing for the game.”
The former United midfielder returned to the club amid considerable uncertainty earlier this year and has since restored stability, improving both performances and results at a stage when the season appeared to be drifting away.
“It’s a unique football club, a special club,” Carrick said. “Immensely proud to have come back and been a part of it, as a supporter and ex-player. As a pure supporter, to be in a position to come back and help and move forward was important.
“To make a big step, and back in the Champions League is good, we’re happy with the work we’ve done so far.”
Carrick’s work over the past four months has reportedly earned the backing of chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, both of whom are understood to be in favour of giving him the role permanently.
Regardless of whether the contract is formally completed before Sunday, Carrick confirmed he would address supporters after the Forest game.
“That’s important anyway – the supporters are a massive part of this club,” Carrick said. “We thank them for the season and the support, the last four months for me personally. Regardless of that, for what we’ve gone through and that connection. The players have felt that.”
Carrick also confirmed that Casemiro has recovered from the injury that ruled him out against Sunderland, potentially allowing the Brazilian midfielder a farewell appearance at Old Trafford.
“Since I’ve been here and met him and worked with him, he’s been fantastic for us, for me personally, what he’s given us,” Carrick said. “He’s had some ups and downs over the years but to finish so strongly and see that connection with the supporters is great.”
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
