Manchester United once discussed Russell Martin as a shock managerial target, with the then-Southampton boss emerging as a name in the frame during deliberations over Erik ten Hag's future.
The Red Devils were preparing for their FA Cup final against Manchester City, but questions remained over Ten Hag's position at Old Trafford. United beat their local rivals, which bought Ten Hag more time in the role.
Wilcox's backing for Martin
According to The Athletic, Martin was one of the names discussed if Ten Hag had been sacked that summer. Jason Wilcox had pushed Martin, who was enjoying a successful spell with Southampton. Wilcox had worked with Martin at the Saints, who earned Premier League promotion via the Championship play-offs.
The report adds that Wilcox did not view Martin as a viable option at the time but saw him as someone to keep a close eye on with a nod to the future.
Managerial changes since
After the FA Cup win, Ten Hag kept his job until October, before being replaced by Ruben Amorim. Amorim was dismissed in January and replaced by current boss Michael Carrick.
Martin's managerial stock has since plummeted after a difficult spell at Rangers and ongoing struggles with Leicester City.
Carrick's current pressure
Carrick is under significant pressure at Old Trafford, with United currently 17th in the Premier League table. According to David Ornstein, Carrick had been given three games to turn around United's fortunes before their loss to Chelsea on Saturday.
The Red Devils were reduced to 10 men as they lost 2-0 to the Blues at Stamford Bridge. As a result of the loss, United have dropped to just above the relegation zone.
Speaking to NBC Sports, Ornstein said: "I think it was quite simply a show of faith in Michael Carrick, that continues to this day. I'll tell our audiences that I would expect him to be in charge for both the Roma and Aston Villa games. And that's because when they had these deliberations, that you mention, they decided he would be in charge for the next three games. That they were backing him to try and bring an upturn and improve Manchester United's fortunes."
