Irish Sunday Mirror

New Carr deal... but Mike stalls

- BY STEVE BATES

MICHAEL CARRICK is on the brink of signing a new contract to help manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer turn around Manchester United.

But Mike Phelan could be heading from the dug-out to the boardroom at Old Trafford.

Former midfield star Carrick and fellow coach Kieran Mckenna were on the coaching staff under Jose Mourinho – and they will sign new deals in the next few days to stay.

But Phelan, former No.2 to Sir Alex Ferguson until he retired, has still not signed a contract to stay.

The 56-year-old coach is on secondment from Australian side Central Coast Mariners, where he is sporting director.

And that job is the one he’s believed to prefer if he moves back to United full-time next season.

Phelan has enjoyed his role with the Mariners and told pals a similar position at United would be ideal.

United have looked to appoint a director of football since last year. They want an experience­d operator to help build a player-recruitmen­t strategy and link up the first team and academy.

It’s understood Phelan believes that he has the experience and ability to take up the role.

 ??  ?? OLE’S MEN:
OLE’S MEN:

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Ireland