Why Manchester United have turned back to Michael Carrick, the anti-Amorim

As a footballer, Michael Carrick had the ability to blend into the background, his unassuming nature giving him a lower profile than his ability merited. He may have taken that capacity for relative anonymity into his coaching career. If Carrick was the stealth candidate to take the reins at Manchester United for the rest of the season, with Darren Fletcher thrust into the spotlight immediately and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer the romantic, nostalgic choice, a selection process may have been the triumph of the quiet man.

Carrick nevertheless interviewed well when he spoke to director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada last Thursday. It may not have harmed his cause that he can appear the anti-Amorim: less charismatic, less quotable, less explosive. Carrick brought a calmness in possession of the ball. That unflustered nature may serve him well for the pressurised task of leading United.

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