Gary Neville drops verdict on Man United's decision to stand by Michael Carrick

Neville backs Carrick's reprieve after Sunday's 3-0 loss to Bournemouth, but doubts a quick turnaround with United 16th and winless in recent weeks.

Manchester United's board has decided to give manager Michael Carrick more time to salvage the club's season despite a dire run of form. The decision came after Sunday's 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth, which left United 16th in the Premier League table and having won just two of their last 12 matches across all competitions. They had also suffered a 4-1 Champions League loss at Como.

Gary Neville, who played alongside Carrick under Sir Alex Ferguson, expressed surprise at the decision to retain him but acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead. "I was absolutely certain that what I witnessed on Sunday would be the end of Michael," Neville said on Sky Sports, noting Carrick's demeanour suggested a farewell. However, Neville welcomed the reprieve, hoping Carrick can reconnect with his players, who he feels have stopped performing for the manager.

Carrick arrived at Carrington on Tuesday morning and training proceeded as normal. United face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this weekend in their next Premier League fixture. Fellow former United player Ashley Young warned that the club may struggle to attract a top-level replacement if they eventually part ways with Carrick, suggesting few elite managers would take on the current squad.