Man Utd have obvious Michael Carrick replacement if boss is sacked mid-season

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick is facing mounting pressure following a difficult start to his permanent tenure. After securing Champions League qualification as interim boss, Carrick's side opened the Premier League campaign with a loss to Hull City, beat Ipswich Town, drew with Everton, and lost the Manchester derby. The pressure intensified after United surrendered a two-goal lead to lose to Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round.

Should Manchester United's hierarchy decide to dismiss Carrick, former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is highlighted as an available replacement. The 48-year-old stepped down from Newcastle over the summer and remains unattached. An appointment of Howe would require no compensation fee, potentially appealing to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.