Carrick future to be decided 'pretty soon' amid contract talks

Michael Carrick has won 10 out of his 15 league games in charge of Manchester United

Michael Carrick says his Manchester United future will be decided "pretty soon" amid ongoing talks over a contract to take over as head coach on a permanent basis.

United are negotiating with Carrick's representatives over what is likely to be a two-year deal, with an option for a further season.

Club officials are refusing to comment on the current state of the talks but an announcement in advance of Sunday's penultimate Premier League game with Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford is not being ruled out.

Asked directly about the situation when he spoke to the media at United's Carrington training ground on Friday afternoon, Carrick said: "The future for me is going to be decided pretty soon. We knew that."

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Talks continuing after chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox recommended Carrick's appointment to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is a strong indicator his installation as Ruben Amorim's permanent successor is now just a matter of time.

Most players have backed Carrick for the job, with the majority of fans also believing the former United and England midfielder has earned the right to be given the role after winning 10 of his 15 Premier League games in charge to secure a place in next season's Champions League.

United need one point from their final two league games to be certain of a third-place finish.

The 44-year-old has been named on a six-man shortlist for the top flight's Manager of the Season award.

Carrick, who confirmed 34-year-old Brazilian midfielder Casemiro will be available for his Old Trafford farewell, said he intends to follow the tradition started by his former boss Sir Alex Ferguson and address supporters after the Forest game.

"That's important anyway," he said. "The supporters are a massive part of this club.

"We thank them for the season; the last four months for me personally.

"Regardless of that, for what we've gone through and that connection, which the players have felt, it's important for me to thank the fans for that."

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