Former Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard has firmly endorsed Michael Carrick as the ideal candidate to take over the managerial reins on a permanent basis at Old Trafford. Carrick stepped in as interim head coach in January following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, with the club struggling to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Remarkable Turnaround Under Carrick
Since Carrick took charge, United have experienced a dramatic resurgence, winning eight of his 12 matches in charge. This impressive run has propelled them back into contention for Champions League qualification. Should they secure victory against Brentford, they will move 11 points clear of sixth-placed Brighton with only 12 points remaining in the season.
Lingard, who made 55 appearances alongside Carrick at United before the latter moved into coaching under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, believes the interim boss has transformed the dressing room atmosphere and results.
Lingard's Verdict
Speaking to BBC Sport, the current Corinthians midfielder stated: "I think they have come on leaps and bounds. Obviously it can be difficult with different managers coming in and having different ideas and different personnel. But I think now they are really on the right track with Michael. I know him from my Man United days, I know how he operates and the lads are doing really well under him."
When asked directly if Carrick should be appointed permanently, Lingard replied: "I think so. He has the Man United DNA inside of him. He knows the ins and outs of the club. They are on the right track at the moment. The lads have taken to him really well. They are winning a lot of games, they will probably get Champions League this season which is amazing. So I think so, 100 per cent."
Ballon d'Or Hopes for Fernandes
Lingard also weighed in on Bruno Fernandes' credentials for the Ballon d'Or, highlighting the captain's extraordinary season. Fernandes has amassed 19 assists and eight goals, driving United's push for Champions League football. Lingard, who played alongside Fernandes in 26 matches, commented: "His performances for Man United this season have been extraordinary. He is three assists off [Kevin] De Bruyne's record so for me he has to be up there, 100 per cent."
Since his move to Brazil, Lingard has made eight appearances for Corinthians, including scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Barra in the Copa do Brasil fifth round first leg last week.
