Man United to step up interim manager search after Fletcher exit

Manchester United are expected to accelerate the process of appointing a new interim head coach, with a final decision looming between Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following face-to-face talks with the club’s hierarchy.

As reported by Sky Sports News on Monday, both former United players have now presented their cases to senior figures at Old Trafford, with further detailed discussions scheduled to take place on Monday.

Sky Sports News understands that Carrick made a particularly strong impression during his meetings, although there remains an appreciation within the club of the popularity Solskjaer enjoyed during his previous spell in charge.

The aim is to appoint an interim head coach as soon as possible to allow the new man sufficient time to prepare the squad for Saturday’s Manchester derby at Old Trafford.

The club are currently without a permanent solution after Darren Fletcher confirmed that he has reached the end of his agreed short-term period in charge of the first team.

Speaking after United’s 2-1 FA Cup defeat by Brighton, Fletcher said he will report to the Carrington Training Centre on Monday to discuss his next role within the club.

United’s defeat to Brighton compounded a difficult period, with the club now knocked out of both domestic cup competitions. As a result, the Premier League is their sole remaining focus for the rest of the season.