Michael Carrick is already under pressure to turn things around at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick is feeling the pressure after a string of poor results
Michael Carrick is feeling the pressure after a string of poor results (Image: Getty)
Michael Carrick's permanent appointment as Manchester United manager hasn't exactly gone to plan so far. He excelled during his temporary spell in charge last season, guiding the club back into the Champions League, and was rewarded with the chance to lead the team on a full-time basis. However, since the 45-year-old put pen to paper over the summer, things have taken a negative turn.
A chastening defeat to newly-promoted Hull City on the opening day of the Premier League season was followed by a morale-boosting win over Ipswich Town. United haven't won a league game since then, drawing with Everton away from home before a controversial defeat in the Manchester derby.
To make matters even worse, they surrendered a two-goal lead to lose to Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday night.
It means Carrick is already under pressure to turn things around or risk losing his job in the not-too-distant future. He admitted that he was feeling the heat after the Brighton game and it remains to be seen how much patience United's hierarchy will show.
If he is eventually relieved of his duties, one particular candidate would be the obvious choice to succeed him in the Old Trafford dugout.
Eddie Howe remains without a club after stepping down as Newcastle manager over the summer, with the 48-year-old possessing qualities that would help United return to winning ways.
He is adaptable and has a proven track record of improving players, as shown during his time with the Magpies, in addition to being an excellent man-manager.
Eddie Howe might just be the ideal candidate to succeed Carrick
Eddie Howe might just be the ideal candidate to succeed Carrick (Image: Getty)
Some might argue that Howe's ceiling isn't high enough for a club like United, having never managed a team of their size before.
However, given that he previously spent time shadowing Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid, he knows what it's like to work at a top club under the pressure that comes with it.
Howe exceeded expectations by delivering Newcastle's first trophy in 70 years and his exceptional record at Bournemouth speaks for itself.
Because he is currently unattached, United would be able to appoint him without paying a penny in compensation, which could appeal to Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his cost-cutting mentality.
Only time will tell if Carrick is eventually axed, but if that decision is made over the coming weeks, United could reap the rewards of handing the reins to Howe.
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