Phil Jones flags biggest concern for Michael Carrick if he lands United job | OneFootball

Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones has revealed the biggest problem awaiting Michael Carrick if he lands the managerial job on a permanent basis.

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Carrick is undoubtedly in a strong position to be named permanent United boss amidst the incredible transformation he has overseen at the club since he was named as Ruben Amorim’s temporary replacement in January.

The legendary midfielder has taken charge of 13 games, winning nine, drawing two and losing two. United’s 2-1 victory over Brentford on Monday evening opened a three-point gap between themselves and Liverpool in fourth. As it stands, the Red Devils need just two points from their remaining four games to secure Champions League football.

There have been growing calls from both current and former players to keep Carrick beyond the season.

But United are adamant that they will not make any knee-jerk decisions, and an appointment will only be made once all available and suitable options have been considered.

Other managers said to be in the running for the Old Trafford hot seat include Julian Nagelsmann, Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner and Gareth Southgate.

Speaking on ESPN FC, Jones insisted that Carrick has earned the position. Jones explained that the biggest issue for Carrick will be summer recruitment, as that will make or break him in the long term.

Jones’ remarks

Jones said, “Look, I have said all along. If he does well, I don’t see a reason why they can’t give it to him. He has got a good team behind him with Steve Holland, who I know well from an England set-up.”

“On the grass, he was really good, good messages, different voice around the lads. Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, he has got a really good squad behind him and the people can help him.”

“And he has done really well, he has got results. And we are all judged on results. And I think it’s only right and it’s fit that he gets the job at the end of the season.”

The 34-year-old added, “I think the test will probably then come in the summer, recruitment-wise. Casemiro is obviously going. He has to fill that void. That’s going to be a big one to fill to play alongside Kobbie, who we have seen tonight has been exceptional. And they have got to build the team around Kobbie.”

On what Carrick has achieved so far, Jones told the news outlet, “What Michael Carrick has done in the last few months since he has come in, he has brought a lot of stability back into the club. The way they are playing is sort of similar to what Utd fans would probably imagine it was five or six years ago.”

“You know, they are creating a lot of chances now. When they turn the ball over, the first pass is always forward.”

“They look like they are going to score every single time, and when you have got players like Bruno Fernandes in your team, who can produce something out of nothing in the blink of an eye, it’s huge.”

United are next in action on Sunday when they host bitter rivals Liverpool.

Featured image Warren Little via Getty Images

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