Michael Carrick is still Manchester United's manager. He led training at the club's Carrington base after a turbulent few days, giving him and his squad another chance to repair a season that has gone badly wrong.
Carrick's position had looked seriously threatened after United lost 3-0 at home to Bournemouth on Sunday. The result stretched the club's winless run to eight matches in all competitions and left the team 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.
Senior club officials met on Monday as speculation about the manager's future grew. British media reports had already linked possible replacements with the job. No decision was announced, however, and Carrick arrived for work as usual to oversee preparations for Saturday's league match away to Chelsea.
According to British media reports, Carrick and his players will be given the opportunity to turn things around. The club's focus is reported to be on preparing for the Chelsea game and producing a response on the pitch.
Sunday's mood at Old Trafford was telling. Supporters directed their frustration at the players instead of the manager. As Carrick walked toward the tunnel after the final whistle, thousands of fans sang his name and applauded. Moments later the cheers gave way to angry boos as the players left the field.
The reaction reflected the goodwill the 45-year-old still holds among United supporters. They remember his decorated 12-year playing career at the club as a midfielder, and they have noted the measured way he has conducted himself since taking charge.
Carrick has repeatedly taken responsibility for the team's struggles while protecting his players from criticism. Speaking after the Bournemouth defeat, he said: "I totally understand the situation. I'm not expecting anything in particular, to be honest. I'm carrying on as normal, and I love this place."
He added: "I always do what I feel is going to be the best for the football club, whatever decision is made on anything, really."
With no change confirmed, attention now turns to Saturday's trip to Chelsea, where United will look to end their poor run and ease the pressure on their manager.
