Jamie Carragher has backed Michael Carrick to become Manchester United's permanent manager next season following a string of "sensational results". Carrick's side tightened their grip on a Champions League qualification spot with a 2-1 win over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday. The interim boss has won nine of his 13 games in charge since January.

Third-placed United now hold an 11-point cushion over sixth-placed Brighton with four Premier League games remaining. Carragher told Sky Sports: "They're the results of a title-winning team... I don't think anybody could have come in and done any better results-wise." Gary Neville noted Carrick has accumulated 29 points from 13 games - "a brilliant job".

United could clinch Champions League qualification next weekend when they host rivals Liverpool. Harry Maguire credited the manager's tactical changes and formation adjustments for transforming results. "The biggest criticism of Ruben Amorim was that he never adapted - Carrick has shown he can adapt," Carragher said. The victory over Brentford was United's second consecutive win since the defeat at Leeds.