Former Manchester United midfielder and caretaker manager Michael Carrick has been installed as the odds-on favourite to become the new manager of League Two side Swindon Town.
The Robins, who narrowly missed out on promotion this season, losing in the play-offs to Port Vale at the semi-final stage, are on the hunt for a new boss after Ben Garner was appointed as Charlton Athletic's new manager last week. The 42-year-old had only been in charge at the County Ground for one season, but he made a telling impression during that time.
Swindon, who finished sixth in League Two, earned plenty of plaudits for their style of play under Garner, producing slick, pleasing-on-the-eye attacking football. His departure has dented their hopes of building on their near-miss this season and launching another promotion charge under his stewardship next term.
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However, former United man Carrick has been installed as the favourite to take the reins in Wiltshire. The 40-year-old has been out of football since leaving Old Trafford back in December.
Carrick, following the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, spent three games in caretaker charge, overseeing victories over Villarreal and Arsenal, as well as a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. He confirmed his departure ahead of Ralf Rangnick taking interim charge, bringing his 15-year association with the club to an end.
The former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder, who has since returned to Old Trafford to watch United, has been linked with a cluster of permanent managerial posts over the last few months, including the vacant position at Championship side Blackburn Rovers.
However, it is understood that Carrick now has immediate plans to return to the dugout, either as a manager or coach. Nevertheless, according to BetVictor, he is the current favourite to take over at the County Ground, with odds having been slashed to 1/2.
Joining Carrick on the current betting shortlist is former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder and caretaker manager Ryan Mason, as well as former Swindon player Paul Caddis. Carrick, however, is the current overwhelming favourite.
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