Michael Carrick has been praised by former teammates Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney for his successful stint as Manchester United's caretaker manager, with the pair questioning why his job prospects are under scrutiny.

Carrick, who made 464 appearances for United, was appointed after the sacking of Ruben Amorim in January. He has won six of his eight matches in charge, lifting United from sixth to third in the Premier League. Owen, who played with Carrick at Old Trafford between 2009 and 2012, stated he "can't believe people are questioning" Carrick's suitability for the permanent role. Rooney, who also praised Carrick for bringing back the "Fergie era" feel, agreed, stating everyone at the club loves Carrick and fears things might go wrong.

Owen's comments come amidst reports United are considering other candidates alongside Carrick for the summer appointment. The pair's support contrasts with a past intense debate about who was the better player between them, with Owen recently backing himself against Rooney's claims about their 17-year-old careers, while Rooney was complimentary of Owen's podcast appearance discussing their early England days.

Carrick's current form and the club's improved position under his leadership directly challenge the narrative questioning his managerial capabilities.