Eddie Howe remains the bookmakers’ favourite to succeed Michael Carrick at Manchester United.

The noise has amplified around Old Trafford after the Red Devils drew 4-4 with Aston Villa last night. Not even a late fightback was enough to lift Man United out of the relegation zone.

Carrick has managed just one win, five draws and four defeats in the Premier Leaguue this season. As for Howe, he has relocated down south to enjoy some downtime following an intense spell on Tyneside.

A bombshell announcement in July confirmed Howe’s departure after four-and-a-half years at St James’ Park. He oversaw two Champions League qualifications and guided Newcastle to a first domestic trophy in 70 years.

The former Toon boss considered his future in May after an underwhelming campaign. Newcastle finished 12th - leading to several stars like Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes signalling their desire to leave.

Eddie Howe stance and Manchester United links

According to reports in September, Howe has already rejected an approach from Ligue 1 club Rens. But that is not to suggest he would snub an early return if the right opportunity came along.

He is currently the bookmakers’ favourite - priced at just 15/8 - to replace Carrick at Old Trafford. Alternative names in the running include Julian Nagelsmann (9/2), Mauricio Pochettino (2/1) and Antonio Conte (6/1).

An opportunity at Old Trafford would undoubtedly appeal to Howe despite their struggles in recent years. When assessing his next move, the 48-year-old will look at the wider football project and he has experience of building foundations at Bournemouth and Newcastle.

However, several reports since the Aston Villa game have suggested Carrick will be given time. His comments to the press at the full-time whistle showed no sign of a manager who expects to be shown the door during the international break.

What Eddie Howe said after leaving Newcastle United

Howe penned an emotional farewell to Newcastle fans when explaining his decision to leave. An announcement read: "After a period of personal reflection, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step away from my role as head coach of Newcastle United.

"After nearly five years of giving my life, heart and soul into the club with unrelenting energy, I feel that it is in the best interests of both myself and the club to step away, recharge and take a break.

"Although it's been incredibly difficult to make this decision, I know in my heart that it's the right one. I have always put the best interests of Newcastle before my own in every single decision I have made whilst I've been here and this one is no different.

"It has been the privilege of my lifetime to have been the manager of Newcastle United. It is difficult to put into words what this club, the city and its supporters mean, and will always mean, to me and my family."