Carrick, however, said he remained focused on his responsibilities as manager and did not require guarantees about his position.

“I don’t need assurances from anyone,” he said. “I totally get the position, I get the job, the responsibility, I get what comes with that. I really don’t need any assurances from anyone in that regard.”

The manager said his main priority was preparing the team for Saturday’s match against Chelsea and that he paid little attention to media criticism of his position.

“I don’t see it,” Carrick said. “I only see the things I need to see.

“I don’t look for it. It doesn’t help. I’ve said it before, I care about what the supporters think. I care about how it feels in the stadium and them travelling to games – I care about what we give them and what they see.

“I genuinely don’t take any notice of anything else. I know this job and I know what we need to be better. I don’t need anyone else to tell me.”

Asked whether he was surprised to remain in charge amid questions about his future, Carrick said: “No. I’m here to do my job. I’m here to do the best for the team. I’m desperate to make things better and improve things. I’m not surprised, no.”

Sky Sports News reported that Carrick would remain in charge for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea.