Michael Carrick on brink at Manchester United after Bournemouth humiliation

Manchester United were beaten 3-0 at Old Trafford by Bournemouth, a result that left Michael Carrick's position as head coach in serious doubt and extended the club's winless run to eight games. The defeat was the team's second humiliation in a week and left United a point above the relegation zone.

Carrick dropped captain Bruno Fernandes, who had hit out at the coach's tactics during the week, and watched the match as an unused substitute. Bournemouth took control in front of the Stretford End, leading 2-0 and adding a third as United's defensive problems continued. Bournemouth supporters sang 'Sacked in the morning' as the pressure on Carrick grew. United's fans, however, largely backed Carrick and directed their anger at the players, the owners and director of football Jason Wilcox.

The next day, Carrick and senior officials, including Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox, were at the club's Carrington training ground. Carrick watched the under-21s play Hull City behind closed doors while first-team talks took place. All had left by the evening with no announcement. Carrick had been in the job for 157 days after being appointed permanent head coach.

If he leaves, United would be looking for their 13th manager in the 13 years since Sir Alex Ferguson retired. The club has already gone through seven permanent managers since 2013. Former Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and former Bayern Munich and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann were among the names mentioned as possible replacements.

Gary Neville accused members of the squad of downing tools and a lack of professionalism. Supporters fear a change of manager alone will not fix deeper problems. United's next game is away at Chelsea in five days, leaving open the possibility of further developments before then.