Phelan in line to be technical director

MANCHESTER UNITED are ready to offer Mike Phelan the role of technical director — and promote Michael Carrick on to the coaching staff. Club officials, including head of corporate development Matt Judge, have been in discussions with Phelan since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was appointed manager on a full-time basis at the end of last month, but they are yet to discuss a contract. Phelan is a highly respected figure at Carrington and has been a great support to Solskjaer. He still wants to retain an influence on match days, but United hope to widen his brief and make him responsible for overseeing the rebuilding

of the club. Executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward is eager to conclude matters and give Phelan the reins. The 56-year-old once held a similar role at Central Coast Mariners in Australia. When Phelan is appointed technical director, Carrick will effectively becoming Solskjaer’s assistant. He has been given more chance to work with the squad since Jose Mourinho was sacked last December and United will give him a new deal. Kieran McKenna, who was elevated to the senior coaching team last summer, will also get new terms.