Jamie Redknapp shares new theory after Antoine Semenyo to Liverpool howler

Jamie Redknapp believes Manchester United's appointment of Steve Holland as assistant manager could be part of a plan to eventually bring Sir Gareth Southgate to Old Trafford

Jamie Redknapp has shared his latest theory(Image: Getty Images)

Former Liverpool captain Jamie Redknapp reckons Manchester United's appointment of Steve Holland as assistant manager could pave the way for Sir Gareth Southgate to eventually take charge at Old Trafford.

Redknapp's latest theory comes just days after he claimed that Antoine Semenyo could still complete a January transfer from Bournemouth to Liverpool. At the time, the forward was on the verge of signing a long-term contract with Manchester City. Semenyo went on to join City, leaving Redknapp with egg on his face.

United has brought in Michael Carrick as boss until the end of the season, surrounding him with some sharp tactical minds. Holland is among them, with the former Chelsea and England number two arriving with a wealth of experience.

His finest achievements came working alongside Southgate with England, guiding them to two major tournament finals. Both departed their roles following Euro 2024, and Southgate has remained without a managerial position since.

The ex-England manager has previously been touted for the Manchester hot seat.

He had the backing of Dan Ashworth, who was formerly part of the decision-making structure at Old Trafford, and Redknapp suggests Holland's arrival could eventually lead to Southgate's appointment.

Michael Carrick is the new Manchester United manager(Image: Getty Images)

Redknapp told Sky Sports: "The first thing everyone is now doing is putting two and two together and saying, 'He worked with Gareth Southgate.'

"I actually think, if they could get that appointment done, I think Gareth Southgate would be their choice. I just think the fans wouldn't want that, and that's the difficulty. I think Jim Ratcliffe would like Gareth Southgate, but I just don't think it will happen."

Carrick will be the one calling the shots for the time being.

He previously worked as assistant to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before taking charge for three matches following the Norwegian's dismissal - remaining unbeaten throughout. His primary objective will be securing Champions League qualification.

"I think it's a sensible appointment," said Redknapp. "You talk about Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who had done it before as an interim. He did well. I thought this is the more sensible one out of the two. I've met Michael and played against him.

"He's a student of the game. He knows the game inside out. I think he's just got to do his best to get them into the top four or five.

"If he achieves Champions League football, I think that would be a great achievement for him. He did a really good job at Middlesbrough. He didn't quite get them into the Premier League, so I think he'll do a good job."

Despite only being appointed until the end of the season, Carrick is among the frontrunners for the permanent position at his former club. While he's merely a temporary solution, the club has demonstrated its willingness to alter course if performances warrant it.

Solskjaer was initially only an interim appointment in 2018, but his outstanding results saw him secure the role on a permanent basis.