Michael Carrick emerges as contender to become Middlesbrough head coach and replace Chris Wilder

Former Manchester United and England midfielder Michael Carrick is among the contenders to take over as head coach of Middlesbrough.

The 41-year-old is on the list of possible replacements for the sacked Chris Wilder and a conversation could take place early next week.

Carrick has been out of work since a three-game caretaker stint at United following the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last year.

Ex-Manchester United star Michael Carrick is a candidate to take charge of Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough are looking for a new manager after dismissing Chris Wilder (above) this week

He is a native of the North-East and fits the bill for Boro owner Steve Gibson, who is said to prefer a head coach as opposed to a manager. 

It is understood the club are keen move away from the profile of previous bosses such as Wilder and Neil Warnock.

Boro now want a younger coach to work alongside head of football Kieran Scott.

Carrick has worked as assistant to both Solskjaer and Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford and there was surprise when he left the club after an interim period in charge that brought two wins and a draw.

Former Watford boss Rob Edwards has already spoken to Middlesbrough about the position

Meanwhile, former Watford boss Rob Edwards has already spoken to Boro and he has a close relationship with Scott. 

The Teessiders sacked Wilder on Monday with the team inside the Championship relegation zone. 

Caretaker Leo Percovich lifted them from the bottom three after a 1-0 win over Birmingham on Wednesday.

Percovich will again take charge of the team at Millwall on Saturday.