West Ham and Crystal Palace are both keen to hire Michael Carrick as their next manager at the end of the season.
It was the Mirror who claimed that West Ham are interested, whereas the Guardian revealed that Crystal Palace are considering an approach.
The 41-year-old has made a name for himself in the world of football management after guiding Middlesbrough to fourth in the Championship, having taken over when they were 21st.
Now, Carrick has been called a “dream” manager.
What’s the story?
Well, Carrick has received a glowing review from his talisman Chuba Akpom.
The Middlesbrough No.29 scored his 29th goal of the season on Wednesday night in a 3-1 win over Hull City.
After the 90 minutes had ended, Akpom told Sky Sports: “He’s the manager I’ve been dreaming of my whole career. He’s a pleasure to work with. I go out there and give 110% because I want to fight for the manager, because he’s showed so much trust and confidence in me and I really appreciate that.”
By the sounds of it, Carrick is very popular amongst his players on Teeside.
His personal relationships may go a long way in keeping him at Middlesbrough, although if Boro cannot secure promotion via the Play-Offs, an exit is possible.
TEAMtalk believe Boro are already worried about losing Carrick.
Carrick could take Akpom to Crystal Palace or West Ham
TalkSPORT believe Crystal Palace are already interested in signing Akpom, so if the south Londoners were to appoint Carrick, you would imagine that their chances of landing the striker would skyrocket.
West Ham haven’t actually been linked with the 27-year-old, although given the close relationship between him and Carrick, a deal could be on if the Englishman replaces Moyes.
Whatever happens, Middlesbrough have two very attractive assets on their hands, and they will do well to keep them at the Riverside Stadium if promotion is not won this season.
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