Manchester United players reportedly do not have relegation-related clauses in their contracts. United are currently 17th in the Premier League table and are still reeling from their latest defeat at the weekend, a 2-0 loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Michael Carrick’s future as United boss has been the subject of intense speculation over the last few weeks, particularly after the defeat to Chelsea at the weekend. However, for the time being, Carrick remains in charge at United and is expected to be in the dugout until at least the November international break. United have only managed to earn seven points from their opening nine Premier League matches, a run of form which leaves them only outside the relegation zone on goal difference.

According to The Sun, United players' wages would remain the same if they were to be go down to the Championship because relegation clauses are not in their contracts. Relegation would have huge financial ramifications on the club, and even more so with the wage bill staying the same.

United still have 29 matches left to play this season in the Premier League and will face Aston Villa at the weekend in their final fixture before the international break. That could prove to be Carrick's final match in charge if United are unable to record positive results this week.