By West Ham Zone speaking to Frank McAvennie

19th Mar, 2023 | 6:10pm

Pundit reacts to speculation that Michael Carrick could replace David Moyes as West Ham United manager

We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium

Frank McAvennie does not want Michael Carrick to replace David Moyes as West Ham manager if the Scot is to leave the club any time soon.

The Hammers have found themselves in a relegation battle this season despite spending over £180m over the last two transfer windows after reaching the Europa League semi-finals last season.

That has seen Moyes’ future as manager called into question by fans and pundits as they sit in the relegation zone one point adrift of safety heading into the international break.

But while the club have so far backed him and said his job is safe, that hasn’t stopped Middlesbrough boss Carrick being linked with the role after the excellent job he has done on Teeside.

However when asked about his thoughts on the potential appointment, former Scotland and Irons striker McAvennie was adamant that he wasn’t the answer right now or any time soon.

“Oh no, no. No, definitely not,” he told West Ham Zone.

“West Ham don’t need people learning their trade. They’ve not got the three years that Arsenal gave to Arteta.

Carrick has won 16 of 24 games as manager of the Championship club since taking over in October, helping them move away from a relegation battle and battling for an automatic promotion spot.

He is a firm fan favourite at the Riverside, but having previously played for West Ham as a youngster he knows the club well and would understand the demands of the fans.

It would certainly be a gamble to bring him in now, but with many fans having turned on Moyes now a separation in the summer regardless of how the season ends could be ideal and Carrick would then certainly be in a better position to take over if the reports are true.