Former West Ham player and current Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has spoken about being linked to the Hammers hot seat in recent weeks.

The Hammers have to date suffered a difficult campaign, with the club in the midst of a relegation battle despite a significant summer spend of around £180m on new player arrivals – however the side have hugely under achieved.

The hammering at the hands of Brighton at the weekend has again called into question the long term future of manager David Moyes, with many losing patience and wanting to see a change.

A name that regularly gets mentioned as a positive candidate should the club severe ties with Moyes, is former Hammers midfielder Michael Carrick, who has greatly impressed since taking charge of Middlesbrough – who currently sit 3rd in the Championship.

Carrick though, when questioned by the press, has distanced himself from any of the speculation – stating that he has huge respect for David Moyes, whom he played under at Manchester United, and hopes the Scot can turn things around in east London.

“I started at West Ham, I know David Moyes well & have huge respect for him,” said the West Ham Academy graduate. “I played for him. It’s hugely unfair for me to comment. I hope West Ham have a fantastic end to the season with David in charge.

“West Ham is a fantastic club and David is a great man – I really wish them all the success.”

Carrick also reiterated his commitment to Middlesbrough, stating that he is very content where is is currently in his career.

”I’m happy here,” added Carrick. “I’m looking forward to an exciting end to the season with a terrific group of players. I’m just loving being here at Middlesbrough.”