Premier League giants Manchester United are expected to announce that Michael Carrick has taken over as caretaker manager until the end of the season, replacing interim manager Darren Fletcher, who replaced Ruben Amorim.
With the January transfer window well under way, Manchester United are yet to make any signings to bolster their attempts at pushing into a European spot. This lack of activity is reportedly one of the conflict points between the outgoing boss and the club’s hierarchy.
Whilst most fans will be hoping for big name signings coming through the door, the club’s famous academy set-up also has decisions to be made over several of its stars.
Man Utd In Talks with Bradford City Over Ethan Wheatley Loan
Not quite at the level of a Carlos Baleba arrival or a Marcus Rashford departure, the first transfer under the Carrick era is looking likely to be the departure of Ethan Wheatley on loan to League One side Bradford City.
Graham Alexander’s side have already said their goodbyes to their all-time leading goalscorer Andy Cook this window, and despite the 35-year-old having not played a significant role this season, it is clear reinforcements are needed.
According to Sky Sports’ Luca Bendoni, Wheatley is the subject of talks between the Bantams and the Red Devils after returning from his loan spell at Northampton Town. The youngster scored three goals in 25 appearances before his recall.
He also boasts four senior appearances for the Old Trafford based side and has previously been on loan at Walsall.
Cobblers boss Kevin Nolan made it clear that he was disappointed in the player’s recall and he had been hoping he would continue his development after the injury he picked up in December against Huddersfield Town.
Bradford Promotion on the Cards?
Bradford City are refusing to back out of the promotion battle. Surprise candidates Lincoln City and relegated Championship side Cardiff City are the only two clubs above them and they hold a four-point lead over fourth placed Stockport County with a game in hand.
Graham Alexander has shown that his side can compete at League One level, but also potentially higher as they continue to outperform early “favourites” such as Huddersfield Town and Bolton Wanderers.
The key to the club’s success in the second half of the season however will be how the club deals with injuries and fatigue as the season kicks on. Many of the players put a huge amount of effort into finally getting out of League Two, to continue that again for a full season is a tough ask. Therefore, the strength of the wider squad becomes vital. Wheatley may not be prolific yet, but he has a raw energy that could help later in games when his side are struggling to get a result.