Since stepping into the caretaker position until the season’s end, Carrick has steered the team to victories against both Manchester City and Arsenal in his opening two matches. These triumphs have propelled United into fourth spot in the Premier League standings and sparked speculation about a long-term appointment.

However, United icon Gary Neville has cast doubt on whether the ex-midfielder possesses the credentials to manage the side permanently. Speaking on the Stick to Football Podcast, he commented:.

“Michael’s not got the job because of his managerial record at Middlesbrough, he’s got the job because of his knowledge of United and that Ruud (Van Nistelrooy) and Ole (Gunnar Solskjaer) had already been in before a little bit more than him maybe, and there was a feeling of ‘let’s have something fresh’.

“So Michael’s got the job because basically of being in the right place at the right time, that is not the criteria of being a Manchester United manager.”

Keane then alluded to what might unfold based on previous situations. “How many times have we seen managers going in, and doing a job for a good month or two, then they get the job and they’re gone a few months later?” he questioned.

“It’s bizarre, it’s just the nature of football. Anew voice can lift the players for a few months, but if you’re talking about him being the manager for the next two, three, four years, looking after all the scouting, representing the club and competing with Pep and other managers.”

In a light-hearted moment, Neville then turned to fellow pundit and Arsenal great Ian Wright, suggesting: “The right path for Michael, might just be at the end of the season when Arsenal don’t win the league and he goes there.”

As the discussion around Carrick’s future continued, former Lioness Jill Scott encouraged United supporters to savour the team’s current form without getting ahead of themselves. “Now, if you’re a United fan, just enjoy one game a week and you’re winning,” she advised.

“Don’t even think about the manager.”

United will aim to secure their third consecutive victory under Carrick’s stewardship when they welcome Fulham to Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon (2pm kick-off). The following week sees them hosting Tottenham in Saturday’s early kick-off.