Carrick looks set to remain Manchester United boss

Carrick
Interim Manchester United boss Michael Carrick says his future will be decided pretty soon. -EPA

Michael Carrick says clarity over his future will come "pretty soon" as the Manchester United head coach closes in on an agreement to stay at Old Trafford beyond this season.

The 44-year-old has surpassed expectations since replacing Ruben Amorim for the remainder of the campaign, leading the side up to third in the Premier League and securing Champions League qualification with three games to spare.

Such success has seen Carrick go from stopgap to the man the Red Devils have decided to lead them into next season, with contract talks under way with the head coach over an extended stay.

A two-year deal with the option of a further season is reportedly on the table and the Press Association understands a broad agreement has been reached, which could potentially be wrapped up before Sunday's Old Trafford encounter against Nottingham Forest.

"Listen, the future for me is going to be decided pretty soon," Carrick said. "We knew that was going to be towards the end of the season, if not the end of the season, so nothing's changed.

"There's no big swing on that, that is what it is, and obviously whatever's beyond that is pretty close round the corner anyway."

United turned to their former midfielder, captain and coach in January ahead of former boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

"To make the big step to get back into the Champions League is good and obviously we're happy with the work that we've done so far."

Carrick has been publicly backed for the job by a variety of United's players, with his work in improving results and morale impressing director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada.

They need to make the right decision after the appointment of Amorim went awry, falling well short of the "good days" promised by the Portuguese when taking the microphone after the final home game of last season.

Asked if he will address supporters on Sunday, Carrick said: "I think that's important regardless of the situation because the supporters are a massive part of this club and we thank them.

"I've certainly thanked them for the season and their support, and certainly in the last four months, however long it's been for me personally."