Michael Carrick set for Manchester United return

Michael Carrick is set to be appointed as interim head coach at Manchester United ahead of Saturday’s City derby at Old Trafford.

The 44-year-old impressed Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox when presenting his ambitions for the club ahead of a crucial 17-game period.

He will take the reins from Darren Fletcher following Sunday’s FA Cup third round defeat against Brighton, signalling the latest setback during a disappointing campaign.

The former midfielder has been out of work since being sacked as Middlesbrough manager in the summer, but retains a good standing given his work within a challenging environment.

Back-to-back outings against Manchester City and Arsenal will present the ultimate test for a man attempting to cut his cloth at the highest level.

What we know about Carrick, Solskjaer and Ineos today

As is common knowledge, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was keen on returning to Manchester to work with a new sporting setup following a traumatic relationship during his previous tenure.

The Norwegian was installed as an early favourite; however, our sources have confirmed that his ambitious desires of orchestrating a permanent deal opened the door for a more realistic option in Carrick.

Ineos did not intend to handle another mid-season appointment and had drafted a multi-year plan involving Ruben Amorim and a highly-publicised Project 150.

Nonetheless, following the sacking of their Portuguese tactician, officials are keen to stamp the club’s worldwide status with an elite appointment in the summer – one who can spearhead a unified goal.

Carrick entered talks with a clear vision of a short-term agreement that could propel him into the conversation for another Premier League post.

Given his willingness to comply with the club’s desires during a difficult season, Berrada and Wilcox feel he is the correct choice at this stage of the campaign.