Michael Carrick has moved closer to Ole Gunnar Solskjær in the contest to become Manchester United's interim manager, although the Norwegian remains the slight favourite, according to sources.
Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox will not make an appointment until conducting face-to-face interviews with both candidates. After Wednesday's 2-2 draw at Burnley under caretaker Darren Fletcher, the meetings are expected to take place on Thursday and possibly Friday if needed.
Fletcher confirmed he has been asked to lead the team for Sunday's FA Cup tie against Brighton at Old Trafford. 'They've informed me they'd like me to take the team for Sunday,' the Scot said. 'There was a feeling that might have been the case from Monday, but we wanted to focus on Burnley. But yeah, I'm tasked with leading the team on Sunday, so all my focus and energy goes to that now.'
If Berrada and Wilcox opt for Solskjær, it is understood Carrick would consider returning as his assistant. The 44-year-old previously served in that role when Solskjær was appointed permanent manager in March 2019, and later took charge of three matches as caretaker after Solskjær's sacking in 2021, winning two and drawing one.
Fletcher praised the team's performance at Turf Moor despite missing several chances. 'They put in a performance that should win the match. We created a lot of chances, 30 shots, goalline clearance, a disallowed goal of which I am not sure why,' he said. 'It wasn't perfect, we started slow. We scored two fantastic goals. Still lots to work on but I was really pleased with their efforts.'
