Michael Owen defends Carrick as Conte rumours swirl at Man Utd

Michael Owen has urged Manchester United to stand by Michael Carrick, despite reports in Italy that Antonio Conte is close to replacing him at Old Trafford, TEAMtalk reports. Calciomercato claimed United are seriously considering sacking Carrick, while TuttoMercatoWeb said Conte is “reaching an agreement” with the club. United have just one league win this season, are out of the League Cup and have not kept a clean sheet against an English opponent.

Owen told Goal: “I’m a big Carrick fan. I thought he should have been given the job.” He added: “There’s people trying to put pressure, but I do think he deserves a fair bit more time for what he’s done so far.”On the next away trip, Owen said: “The next away game in the Premier League is Leeds, and Leeds are playing really well.” Before that, United face Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Diego Simeone’s side have won four in a row in LaLiga.