Michael Carrick had what can only be described as a topsy-turvy season last year, so he will be looking to make amends this season, which can only benefit Manchester United.
There is no questioning Carrick’s uncanny passing ability, but he suffered a dip in confidence, which saw him spend the majority of the tail of end of last season on the substitute’s bench following – and not to mention his unforgettable, abysmal showing in the 2-0 loss against Barcelona in the 2009 UEFA Champions League final.
To add even more disappointment, the former Tottenham man traveled with England to South Africa, but did not play single minute in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Besides the ageless Paul Scholes, Sir Alex Ferguson does not have a better passing midfielder in the squad than Carrick, so the United boss will be heavily relying on the midfielder’s services this season.
Even though he faces tough competition for a place in the United midfield, Carrick should be able to hold down a starting place because of composure on the ball.
Ryan Giggs, Darren Fletcher, Scholes and the two starlets – Tom Cleverley and Darron Gibson – are all vying for a place in Ferguson’s plans.
Carrick showed his versatility last season by admirably filling in as a center back when United was faced with their injury crisis in November and December.
During his first three seasons at United Carrick was perhaps the most consistent performer in the midfield, and there was no surprise that the Barclays Premier League title ended up at Old Trafford because of his contribution.
Other than Dimitar Berbatov, there really isn’t a player in the squad with more pressure on their shoulders to perform, because at club like United players must perform at the highest of levels every game.
As Carrick found out last season, if you do not perform there is always a player there waiting for his chance to show the manager what he can offer, and at United you more than likely do not get a second chance to prove your worth and you be shown the Old Trafford exit doors.
In his three years at Manchester United, Michael Carrick has only tallied 17 goals in 189 appearances, which Sir Alex Ferguson will be expecting for more of a return from him – as well as the rest of the midfielders – this season.
Contributed by David Hammons / The United Religion
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