Sir Alex Ferguson in favour of Michael Carrick becoming the new interim Manchester United manager over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer | OneFootball

Sir Alex Ferguson is in favour of Manchester United appointing Michael Carrick over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

Man United want an interim manager until the end of the season, and Carrick is emerging as the favourite over the Norwegian.

The former Red Devils midfielder has garnered plenty of internal support within the club since his interview. However, he will not be Man United’s long-term manager.

England boss Thomas Tuchel and Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner are out of contract this summer and have been strongly linked with United.

Carrick is prepared to work with the current Man United coaching staff, with Darren Fletcher likely to assist him, but Solskjaer would like his own backroom staff to join him at the club.

Hiring the Norwegian and his team will cost more, and he is also hoping to qualify for the Champions League and land the job permanently.

He wanted a big bonus if that happened, but Carrick was more realistic during talks and is not targeting a long-term stay.

Having Ferguson’s backing could be a huge boost for his chances, and Man United are expected to make a decision before the end of this week.

Whoever gets the job has to hit the ground running, as Champions League qualification for next season is still within reach.

The Red Devils are only three points off the top four after 21 games and can secure a spot in the elite European competition if they do well in the second half of the season.

Carrick could be in the Old Trafford dugout for the game, and a statement victory against Man City in the derby will be a great way for him to kick things off.