BREAKING: Manchester United finally sack Carrick amid relegation fears

The decision was confirmed on Thursday morning, ending the former midfielder’s short and difficult reign as head coach.

Club legend Carrick leaves Old Trafford with the team sitting in the Premier League relegation zone after a disastrous start to the season.

United have managed just one league win from 10 matches and sit 18th with only eight points.

The side also struggled in Europe and domestic cups, leaving Carrick under intense pressure throughout the campaign.

A heavy Champions League defeat at Como and a 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth had already put his position in serious doubt, but the club initially opted to give him more time.

Results failed to improve sufficiently, with a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa the final game before the international break.

Carrick arrived at Carrington as usual earlier on Thursday before being informed of the decision following meetings involving chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox.

The club is now expected to move quickly for a permanent successor.

Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the clear frontrunner.

The former Tottenham and Chelsea manager remains under contract with the United States national team until 2030, but reports indicate United are working on activating a release clause understood to be in the region of $10 million while finalising personal terms.