Parlour Responds to Cascarino’s West Ham Suggestion, Highlights Lack of Premier League Experience
Ray Parlour Says Michael Carrick Has "Unfinished Business" at Middlesbrough Before Considering Premier League Move
Julen Lopetegui’s position as West Ham manager has been under heavy scrutiny due to the team’s poor form across all competitions.
Managers like Edin Terzic and Michael Carrick have been linked to a potential move to the London Stadium.
Tony Cascarino has previously suggested that Carrick could be an option for West Ham, despite his lack of Premier League managerial experience.
However, in an interview with Football League World on 2 December, Ray Parlour shared his views on Carrick’s readiness for such a role.
“I still think Michael Carrick needs to continue to impress in the Championship before he can be considered for a Premier League job,” said Parlour.
“There have been ups and downs over the past few seasons, but Carrick seems to have a team that can compete in the top six of the league this season.
I think he has unfinished business this season and will want to aim to get Boro promoted. But if he continues to impress, then a Premier League job can come his way soon.”
The Pressure to Replace Lopetegui
West Ham’s struggles this season have raised serious questions about Lopetegui’s future.
Despite disappointing results, David Sullivan has resisted making a change, sticking with the former Wolves manager.
While the Hammers are not currently in the relegation zone, their 14th-place position leaves them vulnerable.
A strong run of results from teams below them could easily pull West Ham into a relegation battle.
Potential replacements like Terzic and Carrick have been mentioned, but Sullivan must approach any managerial change cautiously.
Making the wrong decision could worsen the team’s form, jeopardizing the remainder of the season.
Hopes of European Football Fading
West Ham’s current performance makes it increasingly unlikely they’ll finish in a European spot this season.
Unless results improve soon, the team’s future under Lopetegui remains uncertain, and the possibility of appointing a new manager grows stronger.
Time will tell whether Lopetegui can turn things around or if West Ham will take a new direction, but the pressure is mounting for both the manager and the club’s leadership to deliver results.
