LONDON: Michael Carrick drove away from Manchester United’s training ground on Tuesday with his future hanging in the balance after the latest contentious move by the troubled club’s chaotic hierarchy.

Carrick had awoken to reports that he would be sacked after a torrid start to the season left United languishing in the Premier League relegation zone.

It would be hard for even Carrick’s most ardent fans to complain if the axe fell following United’s worst opening to a campaign in 40 years.

But, in keeping with the muddled thinking that seems to afflict United’s leadership whenever they face a major decision, Carrick got back into his car after Tuesday’s training session still none the wiser about his fate.