Carrick position increasingly in doubt as hierarchy mulls over his future

Manchester United are reviewing Carrick's position after their worst-ever Premier League start and eighth straight league match without a win, with a decision expected before the end of the international break.

Michael Carrick's future as Manchester United head coach is increasingly uncertain following the club's worst-ever Premier League start. After an eighth consecutive league match without a win and Sunday's 4-4 draw with Aston Villa that saw United drop into the relegation zone, the club's hierarchy has launched a full performance review led by director of football Jason Wilcox.

Carrick was given a reprieve after the 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth two weeks ago, with the club asking him to turn things around over three matches. However, continued poor results have intensified pressure on his position. The club plans to make a decision on his future before the end of the current international break, with the next test coming against Liverpool after the break.

United's hierarchy is determined to improve results but wants to avoid appointing an interim manager if they decide to remove Carrick. No substantive talks have yet taken place with alternative candidates. The club is using the international break to fully evaluate the season, with Carrick and his staff due back at Carrington on Tuesday.