Morgan Rogers spent a season playing under Michael Carrick at Middlesbrough and he has since spoken about the influence he had on his young career.
Morgan Rogers has spoke highly of Michael Carrick(Image: Getty Images)
Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers speaks very fondly of Michael Carrick, describing him as a manager who stood out during the early stages of his career. Carrick is one of the contenders to take interim charge at Manchester United, alongside Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
On Wednesday, The Manchester Evening News reported about the possibility of the two ex-players and coaches returning – as part of the same team. Talks are believed to have been held with both Carrick and Solskjaer in what could be a radical move from United following the sacking of Ruben Amorim.
Both coaches previously worked together at Old Trafford, with Carrick forming part of Solskjaer’s backroom team. While there are plenty of questions about who might be best suited for the role, Rogers has already given his own verdict on Carrick.
The Villa star spent the 2023/24 season playing under Carrick at Middlesbrough and has highlighted the influence that short spell had on his career.
“Michael Carrick, he was the coach that spoke to me away from football,” Rogers said.
“There was always a line of communication with him which I thought was vital at that time. I still speak to him now.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick have worked together before at Manchester United.(Image: PA)
“I had a difficult three years going out on loan, before Middlesbrough, but I don’t think I’d be the player I am now without the experiences.
“It gave me the toughness to go through adversity, it also helped me grow up and learn about myself and what I needed to improve. At that time, I wasn’t ready.”
Rogers went on: “Unai [Emery] has obviously been important with the style of play and what he’s made me – the confidence he’s embedded in me.
“He’s allowed me to be me and really show my skills.”
Carrick took his first steps in management in 2022, when he was appointed head coach of Middlesbrough in the Championship. That following a brief caretaker spell with United in 2021.
Despite recording 63 wins during his time with Boro, he was unable to take the club over the line and, ultimately, left his post in the summer of 2025.
As United continue to weigh up their next move, Darren Fletcher is currently overseeing the team in the absence of a permanent appointment. Following Wednesday’s 2-2 draw at Burnley, he will take charge of Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Brighton & Hove Albion (4.30pm).
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