OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER claims Michael Carrick has the "devil" in him to turn it around at Manchester United.
Red Devils legend and former boss Solskjaer claims his mate has a ruthless side that fans do not see.
Carrick is not expected to survive beyond the international break after overseeing United's worst start to a league season in 40 years.
Solskjaer said: "Michael has what it takes to take that club forward.
"You don't see the devil in him. But he has it and so do I! We are so incredibly similar.
"He's the right man. He understands the club, understands the fans and knows what's needed.
"Maybe not many people thought I would become a football coach, at least not manager of Manchester United.
"There were probably many who thought the same about Michael Carrick."
Solskjaer bossed United for three years following 11 seasons at Old Trafford in which he won ten major trophies.
He was sacked in November 2021 with the Red Devils sat seventh in the Prem and on a run of just one win in seven Prem matches.
Carrick has failed to win any of his last NINE matches across all competitions, marking the club's worst run in 38 years.
SunSport revealed last week, ahead of a 2-0 defeat at Chelsea on Saturday, that United decided to dismiss Carrick. However, club chiefs struggled to agree on a successor amid difficulties in securing Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler or Aston Villa boss Unai Emery.
Solskjaer is not actively campaigning for Carrick's position, but he refuses to completely rule out another spell at Old Trafford.
The Norwegian told TV2: "I feel like I have unfinished business. Of course it would have been nice to have the opportunity again."
Solskjaer added: "If Michael does well for ten years and decides to quit, and they ask me if I can take them for two months, of course I wouldn't say no.
"I've been at that club for 18-19 years, so it's part of the family. But it's not something I'm thinking about.
"I miss it, yes. I could have imagined being there forever, but life goes on. It was a very special period."
The 53-year-old held discussions with club officials before Carrick took over as caretaker in January, later securing a permanent two-year contract in May.
Solskjaer said: "None of us were desperate to get the job. We'd probably be up for the job if they asked. At the time, there was talk of being an interim coach for the rest of the season.
"When I spoke to United, I also boasted about Michael. 'If you choose him, you will get a good man,' I said. He did the same to me.
"I had a nice chat with Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada. We didn't talk about contract length or anything. I volunteered if needed and didn't have any demands.
"I gave my input on what is needed for the club to move forward. It was one small chat we had. There were no negotiations.
"Going back to what has been is not always as good. Yes, I had lined it up, but I didn't think it would last longer than the summer. It was probably time for someone else to try."
