MANCHESTER : Michael Carrick refused to be drawn on his long-term future after guiding Manchester United FC to a third-place Premier League finish with a 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest FC on Sunday, saying clarity over his role would come “in a few days”.
With reports suggesting United are close to confirming Carrick as permanent manager, the 44-year-old said the focus had been on finishing the season strongly at Old Trafford.
“Over the coming days, there’ll be clarity in the situation,” Carrick told reporters.
“I think it was a case that today was important about the game and getting the right result, and some individuals as well shining today, so whatever the news is going to be, I’m sure you’ll get clarity in a few days.”
Carrick, appointed on an interim basis in January, oversaw a steady rise up the table that secured Champions League qualification after a difficult first half of the campaign.
“We were really conscious of trying to finish on a bit of a high, we’ve made some really good strides as a team and as a club,” he said.
“It’s easy to get to this stage and, being part of it myself, that extra spark’s not there, so I think to finish like we did for so many reasons was a good day for us.”
Sunday’s match also saw Bruno Fernandes equal the Premier League assist record with his 20th of the season, earning praise from Carrick for his attitude and leadership.
“Today the way he did it was a really nice moment for everybody,” Carrick said.
“Credit to him for that because it’s not easy, but he always puts himself behind the team and the team first.”
Carrick added that United would need to continue evolving to challenge for the title consistently.
“The closer you get to the top of the league, the harder it gets, and you’ve got to make big steps, but it’s harder to make them big steps,” he said.
“So, certainly evolving the group is one thing. And that’s no negative on the group as it is now. You just want to keep pushing forward.”
Carrick also backed Harry Maguire, Kobbie Mainoo and Luke Shaw for England selection ahead of next month’s World Cup squad announcement by manager Thomas Tuchel.
“I certainly think so,” Carrick said when asked if the trio deserved call-ups.
“Between them, all three of them have done their chances no harm recently for sure.”
