Michael Carrick On United Fan Who's Gone 500 Days Without A Haircut: 'It Makes Me...'

Last Updated:February 09, 2026, 21:15 IST

Frank Ilett has waited 500 days for a haircut. Can Michael Carrick finally get him to the barber's with a win over West Ham United tomorrow?

One Manchester United supporter may finally be edging closer to a long-overdue haircut, and it is Michael Carrick who stands between him and the barber’s chair.

Frank Ilett, a devoted United fan, has gone nearly 500 days without cutting his hair after vowing in October 2024 not to do so until the club secured five consecutive victories. United’s revival under interim manager Carrick, who has secured four wins from four so far, has brought that personal pledge back into focus as the team prepares to face West Ham away at the London Stadium on Tuesday.

Carrick was keen to keep the story at arm’s length, though not before making a funny admission.

“I’m aware of it," he said, as quoted by AFP. “My kids have made me aware of it. It makes me smile, but it certainly won’t go into the team talk."

The subplot is light-hearted, but United’s resurgence is being seriously felt at Old Trafford.  Carrick’s impact since taking charge last month has lifted United into the Premier League’s top four and reignited belief among supporters. It’s not just that he has secured four wins, but the highly entertaining manner in which they have been achieved and the opponents — Manchester City, Arsenal, and Tottenham among them, that make it special.

Despite growing calls for the former midfielder to be given the job permanently, Carrick insisted judgment on his tenure should wait.

“It’s not about judging how good or successful we are right now, because nothing has really happened yet," said the 44-year-old, who is in charge only until the end of the season. “There’s a lot more to do between now and then."

United could move up to third, at least temporarily, with victory in London. Tactical changes, including a return to a back four and the reintroduction of Kobbie Mainoo in midfield, have underpinned the upturn in form, while captain Bruno Fernandes has flourished in a more advanced role.

Fernandes described Carrick as a “great manager" after Saturday’s 2-0 win over Tottenham, praise that Carrick brushed aside. “Ultimately, it’s about the team and getting the best out of everyone," he said.

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