Manchester United board hold crisis talks over Carrick’s future and Howe approach

Michael Carrick said ‘it’s a tough situation, there’s no hiding from it’ after Manchester United’s defeat by Bournemouth. Photograph: Gary Oakley/EPA

Manchester United’s hierarchy are in crisis talks over whether or not to sack Michael Carrick as head coach after he oversaw another torrid defeat, against Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Sunday, that appeared to leave his job in the balance.

Carrick was defiant after the 3-0 humbling, insisting he was not expecting to be removed from his post. “I totally understand the situation,” Carrick said of his job prospects. “I’m not expecting anything in particular, to be honest. Carrying on as normal, and I love this place.”