Michael Carrick is in line to land Manchester United’s managerial job on a permanent basis, with Paul Parker informing GOAL of the key decision that has allowed the Red Devils’ interim boss to put himself in that position. Reins were handed to Carrick in mid-January, with the expectation being that Champions League qualification will earn him a full-time contract.

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has thrown his support behind Michael Carrick to become the club’s next permanent manager following an impressive interim spell. The former winger also believes that the club should not turn their back on Rasmus Hojlund, who is set to return from a loan spell at Napoli this summer.

Former England duo Joe Cole and Owen Hargreaves have sent a clear message to the Manchester United hierarchy regarding the club's managerial vacancy. Following a resurgent run of form under Michael Carrick, the pundits insist that failing to appoint the interim boss on a permanent basis would be a massive mistake by the Old Trafford club.

Michael Carrick has expressed his desire to remain at Manchester United for the long term, though he admits the final decision regarding his future rests with the club’s hierarchy. The Red Devils' interim boss saw his side take a significant step towards Champions League qualification with a gritty 1-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Chelsea simply had to win Saturday night's Premier League clash with Manchester United. But they didn't. They lost. Again. And without scoring a goal. Again. It's now four blanks in a row in four defeats in a row for the Blues - their worst goal-less run of results since November 1912. As a result, Liam Rosenior's struggling side remain sixth in the Premier League standings, four points behind fifth-placed Liverpool, who have a game in hand.