Former England, Arsenal and Middlesbrough midfielder Ray Parlour believes Michael Carrick has done enough to earn the Manchester United manager’s job on a permanent basis after guiding the club back into the Champions League places following Ruben Amorim’s departure.
Speaking exclusively to 10bet, Parlour said Carrick’s impact at Old Trafford has been clear to see and argued that the former United midfielder deserves the chance to continue building his project.
Carrick deserves his chance
Carrick stepped in during a difficult period and has helped steady the situation, with United producing strong results under his leadership.
Parlour pointed to both performances and results as proof that the interim boss has earned consideration for the role full-time.
“I think so. I think he deserves it,” Parlour said.
“What he’s shown the players is he’s gone back to basics. He’s put people in the right positions and, as I said before, he’s got good results – 10 wins from 15 is brilliant.”
However, Parlour also warned United against making the same mistakes clubs often make with long-term managerial contracts.
“I wouldn’t give him a five-year contract, though. If I was Man United, I’d be saying let’s give him a two-year deal and see how he goes.”
“He’s done the job replacing Ruben Amorim and got them back into the Champions League, which is exactly what they needed.”
Fernandes earns top honours
Parlour also praised Bruno Fernandes after the midfielder was named FWA Footballer of the Year, insisting the Portuguese star has been United’s standout player this season.
“He’s had a top-class year,” he said.
“Everybody looks at Bruno and says he’s the main man.”
Parlour suggested Carrick’s influence may have helped unlock the best version of Fernandes by giving him greater freedom on the pitch.
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Rashford transfer seen as bargain
Parlour also claimed Marcus Rashford‘s reported £26m release clause could make him one of the bargains of the summer transfer window.
“If you can get the proper Marcus Rashford back, that’s a bargain,” he said.
Parlour believes wages could become the biggest obstacle, but suggested interested clubs would move quickly if Rashford was willing to compromise.
“If he did, a lot of clubs would be straight in.”
He added that a return to the Premier League should not be ruled out if the right opportunity arises.
