Manchester United legend Roy Keane has said Michael Carrick deserves to be appointed the club’s permanent manager following an encouraging start to his spell in charge.
Keane, who had earlier expressed reservations about Carrick taking the role long-term, appeared to soften his position after the former midfielder led United to impressive wins over Manchester City and Arsenal.
Speaking on The Overlap, Keane backed the idea of Carrick being given the job full-time, commending his impact and the timing of his appointment.
“I hope they give it to him,” Keane said. “I hope he gets it in the summer. I don’t necessarily think it’s the right decision, but I wish him well.
“I’ve said what I think already. If he gets the job in the summer, then you just say, ‘Fair enough, good luck to him.’”
Despite his support, Keane maintained that Manchester United could still attract a more experienced manager.
“I believe United can get a better manager than Carrick, no doubt,” he said. “But he’s doing well. The timing has worked in his favour, and even if he doesn’t get the United job, these results—similar to what happened with Ruud van Nistelrooy—could help him secure another role, possibly elsewhere in the Premier League.”
Keane concluded by noting that while stronger managerial options may exist, Carrick has made the most of his opportunity and deserves recognition for his performances so far.