Harry Redknapp has said Manchester United boss Michael Carrick is "too laid-back" and revealed he never expected him to become a manager. The 45-year-old, who was handed his senior debut by Redknapp, impressed during an interim spell at Old Trafford earlier this year but has struggled for results since taking the job permanently.
Winless run and difficult fixtures
The 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League was United's fifth consecutive match without a win. Carrick's only victories this season have come against Ipswich Town and Azerbaijan side Sabah.
Sunday's trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United is therefore of huge importance, with challenging fixtures against Como, Bournemouth and Chelsea to follow. Carrick's first managerial role at Middlesbrough started well but ended badly, with the club sacking him after two-and-a-half years.
Redknapp's verdict on Carrick's character
Writing in his column for The Sun, Redknapp said: "I've known Michael since he was 12 years old at West Ham. I can't say I always saw a manager in him."
"Michael's always been a lovely guy from a lovely family, a really intelligent footballer who knew the game, read it, controlled matches. But he's always been a quiet lad, too, laid-back. It's what he is."
Redknapp contrasted Carrick's touchline behaviour with that of Roberto De Zerbi, adding: "When United scored against Tottenham the other day, he wasn't running up and down the touchline — the complete opposite to Roberto De Zerbi, kissing the ball and all that when they equalised."
Pressure grows amid Martinez criticism
Redknapp also said: "Results haven't been great but I hope he turns it around and keeps the job because I love him. You can change Michael tomorrow and they are still not going to finish any higher than fifth or sixth this season. That's how I see their team. They're nowhere near good enough to challenge for a title."
The poor run has already put significant pressure on Carrick, with Lisandro Martinez criticising the club's recruitment. The Argentine criticised the failure to bring in more players over the summer, with injuries forcing Ayden Heaven to play out of position in Madrid. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have also been deployed up front in the absence of Benjamin Sesko.
Martinez released two statements after his outburst, with the first clarifying his comments but not including an apology. His second Instagram message did include an apology, and he revealed he had met with Carrick and other club chiefs. He has been fined for his comments, but it remains to be seen if he will keep his place in the team.
