"I know him": Wayne Rooney fancies 44yo to become Man Utd manager

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has backed Michael Carrick to become the permanent manager of the Red Devils at the end of the season.

United have made tremendous progress since Carrick took interim charge in January. They have picked up 22 points from nine Premier League matches to climb to third in the table.

The latest 3-1 victory over Aston Villa has put United in the driving seat for Champions League football after both Liverpool and Chelsea also dropped points last weekend.

United are presently three points ahead of fourth-placed Villa with a superior goal difference. They are also five and six points ahead of Liverpool and Chelsea, respectively.

A top-five league finish could be enough to qualify for the Champions League next term, and it looks like United are best-placed to make the competition among the chasing pack.

Speaking after yesterday’s win, Rooney said that Carrick should 100 percent get the job. He added that he knows him very well and feels it is a no-brainer to hand Carrick the position.

He told BBC Sport: “100% he should [get the job].

“I knew this was going to happen with Michael Carrick. I know him very well.

“I know his character and his personality. It needed a calm head, but someone who knows the place.

“The players needed some love, and he has given them that.

“We have seen the players play with more quality, more together as a team, and they look like a very strong team. Why would you change?”

Carrick in pole position for permanent Man Utd job

The 44-year-old was handed the interim duties shortly after Ruben Amorim was dismissed from the helm.

There were no huge expectations when he arrived, but Carrick has been a huge hit. He started off his tenure with statement victories over Manchester City and Arsenal.

The Red Devils also ended their long winless streak against Tottenham Hotspur. The club have likewise shown a fighting spirit, scoring late goals to get over the line.

Benjamin Sesko, in particular, has enjoyed a brilliant run under Carrick. He has scored three winning goals, while bagging a dramatic equaliser against West Ham United away.

Carrick has brought unity, form and confidence within the squad. The club are well-placed in the Champions League race, which should boost Carrick’s managerial credentials.

If United qualify for Europe’s elite competition, Carrick should be a clear-cut favourite to become the permanent head coach of the Red Devils at the end of the campaign.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .