5 Premier League titles, 6 Community Shields, 2 League Cups, 1 FA Cup, 1 Champions League, 1 Club World Cup and 1 Europa League- 1 Manchester United legend. Michael Carrick one of the best deep-lying midfielders of his generation, gets a well-deserved testimonial this Sunday.
One of the best readers of the game, he is usually a pass ahead of everybody else on the pitch. He has a calming influence on the team and has great distribution. A true professional and a player’s player, Carrick has always been in the good books of his managers.
Signed in 2006 from Tottenham, Carras has 459 appearances for United scoring 24 goals and assisting a further 34. Over the years he has become a fan favorite and absolutely loves Manchester United. Gary Neville revealed that Carrick was always last to finish the celebrations whenever they won a trophy. He is one of the most respected players in the dressing room. Such was his influence that he was the “trainer coach during the game” as described by Louis van Gaal. His game is widely appreciated by stalwarts such as Xavi, Pep Guardiola and Xabi Alonso.
Always seen intercepting balls, finding spaces and playing long, accurate diagonals, Carrick brought out the best of his teammates. He makes the team tick and organises the team to perfection. He formed an amazing partnership with Paul Scholes in the heart of midfield. They ran the midfield and led the team to glory in the Premier League as well as the Champions League. Due to his technical prowess and intelligence, Carrick has also often done a job for the team as a centre-back.
Most new managers take time understanding the importance of Michael Carrick. He always does the unseen things and rarely gets the credit he deserves. His love for United is never questioned and always gives 100% on and off the pitch. A few months back he said that he’d consider retirement if United didn’t offer him a new deal!
A dying breed
Carrick hails from an older generation of stars, rarely seen in commercials, not very active on social media and mostly away from the media. Rather, he spends all free time with his family, is always respectful and well mannered. He is one of the most ideal football players and a huge inspiration for upcoming youngsters. Players of such qualities are truly a dying breed. The decision to award him a testimonial is a very noble one.
This Sunday Old Trafford will witness a plethora of stars and other Man United legends from the golden era- all in great appreciation of a fellow legend Michael Carrick.