Michael Owen has said he "can't believe people are questioning" whether Michael Carrick should become the permanent manager of Manchester United.

Former midfielder Carrick, who made 464 appearances for United, was appointed caretaker head coach after the sacking of Ruben Amorim in January.

The 44-year-old has won six of his eight matches in charge and the club have moved from sixth to third in the Premier League.

Former Manchester United and England striker Owen, who played with Carrick at Old Trafford between 2009 and 2012, believes he has "brought a calm back to the club".

"I can't believe people are questioning whether he should get the job," Owen said on the latest edition of BBC podcast The Wayne Rooney Show.

"Manchester United have waited about 12 years - they've gone for proven, legends, everything since Sir Alex [Ferguson].

"And the one time they are starting to play well, get results, the fans are on board - you're telling me at the end of the season if he gets third [place] they will say 'thanks, but no thanks'. How is that possible?"

Rooney, who has praised Carrick and previously said the caretaker has given United fans a taste of the Fergie era, is in agreement with Owen.

"Everyone at Manchester United loves Michael Carrick and they are just scared it doesn't go right. He's done an unbelievable job," Rooney said.

The club are understood to be looking at other candidates - along with Carrick - to take over as permanent manager in the summer.