MANCHESTER, England -- Whatever happens at Manchester United this summer, Michael Carrick can be happy that he has done everything he can to get the manager's job permanently.
Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are taking their time before deciding who will be in charge next season. As Carrick has pointed out before, it's not his call. But after overseeing a ninth win from 13 games as temporary boss to put United on the brink of a Champions League return, he has put forward his case convincingly.
The 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday showcased the best and the worst of this team -- positive attacking football intertwined with openness at the back. But whatever you think of the style of the performance against Brentford, you can't argue with Carrick's overall record since taking the reins in January.
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United have taken 29 points from a possible 39 to climb from seventh in the Premier League table to third. Another two points from the remaining four games and United will be guaranteed a place in next season's Champions League.
Whether Carrick will also need his passport is down to Ratcliffe, Berrada and Wilcox.
"We have given ourselves a great chance [of reaching the Champions League]," said Carrick. "These last two results have been big for that.... It's that time of the season where it's crucial. To win again is a good habit to get used to, but it's an important one for us.
"The Champions League is not something we should be over-celebrating. It is one thing, we need to try and achieve it, but there is still more work to be done."
Michael Carrick signed a six-month contract to be Manchester United's manager in January, and the club has excelled since his arrival. Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images The question is whether Carrick will get the opportunity to finish what he has started. And as important as it is that United get the right person in charge, the hierarchy is also facing crucial decisions about the squad -- particularly in midfield.
Against Brentford, captain Bruno Fernandes showed why it's vital that he stays. Casemiro showed why he will be so difficult to replace, and Kobbie Mainoo showed why it's crucial that any new signings don't stunt his development.