Ratcliffe praises Carrick, mum on coach's long-term status

SHANGHAI (AP) — Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe said temporary coach Michael Carrick is doing an “excellent job” but the British billionaire wouldn't entertain a question about the former player possibly keeping the job long term.

United is up to third place in the Premier League under Carrick, the former England and United midfielder who was hired in January on a contract through end of the season.

“He’s doing an excellent job, yeah absolutely,” Ratcliffe told Sky Sports at the Chinese Grand Prix on Saturday.

Ruben Amorim was fired in early January after 14 months on the job and with United in sixth place.

Ratcliffe, who controls United's soccer operations despite being a minority shareholder, was asked by Sky Sports if Carrick would get the job permanently if the team's upward trend continues.

“Not going there," Ratcliffe said with a chuckle.

Under Carrick, United has won six of its eight games, with just one loss. United hosts Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday. Both teams are level on points with Carrick's team ahead on goal difference.

Ratcliffe, owner of petrochemicals giant INEOS, is also a shareholder of the Mercedes F1 team.

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