Both he and former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer emerged as the leading candidates for the caretaker role. Having been without a position since departing Middlesbrough, the chance to take charge at Old Trafford represented a monumental opportunity. But when he turned up at the family occasion, shortly after taking United’s call, nobody present would have suspected he’d just been presented with a chance at one of football’s most prestigious institutions.

Close friend Chris Hood was among those attending the gathering in Newcastle. When questioned about how the United manager conducted himself at the celebration, given the telephone conversation he’d had, Hood revealed to the BBC: “It doesn’t shock me, but nothing was mentioned.

“Not one of us knew even though it was bandied around and there were plenty of people around him who were thinking: ‘Will it be him?’ But Michael was there for his family and to see his friends. He was there to make the most of that precious time.”

This episode highlights Carrick’s reluctance to place himself at the forefront of attention, despite being presented with one of football’s most prestigious positions.

It reflects the manner in which he has conducted himself since taking charge at Old Trafford. Alongside steering the Reds to six wins from seven Premier League fixtures, he has also navigated difficult questions concerning other club affairs.

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He has already faced enquiries about Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s contentious remarks in which the United minority stakeholder claimed “the UK has been colonised by immigrants.” Furthermore, Carrick has consistently been questioned about his prospects of securing the United role permanently. On that matter, he has steadfastly focused solely on the next fixture and is approaching matters one day at a time.

He has also earned favour within the dressing room, with Lisandro Martinez particularly impressed by the former United midfielder, who has elevated the club to third position in the Premier League. Carrick made his mark on Martinez within merely three days.

Following United’s emphatic 2-0 triumph over Manchester City, Martinez commented: “First of all, play with the ball, don’t be scared of the ball, having composure with the ball, play with confidence. We had to defend with our lives and when we play we had to play with confidence and I think we did it.

“Three goals, with a minimal offside, I think we deserved this win. But what [Michael] Carrick did with his staff was unbelievable, especially in a short time, that’s why I’m impressed about that.”