José Mourinho has described Michael Carrick as “very intelligent” after the midfielder signed a new one-year deal keeping him at Old Trafford for an eleventh season.
There was speculation the 34-year-old whose previous contract expired this summer would leave the club on a ‘Bosman’.
But that has been laid to rest as it’s clear the incoming Mourinho values his presence.
“Michael is a very intelligent midfielder and a great reader of the game. I am pleased that he will be extending his contract,” he told United’s official website.
“His form this year shows his ability and his enjoyment of the game are as strong as ever. Michael has a wealth of experience from his many years at the club and that knowledge will be invaluable to me. I am really looking forward to working with him.”
Carrick is United’s second longest serving player after Wayne Rooney.
Since arriving from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2006 he’s accumulated 421 appearances in all competitions scoring 21 goals and creating a further 35.
He’s subsequently built a reputation as one of English football’s premier controlling midfielders.
Sitting in front of United’s back-four he capably retains and recycles possession averaging 1.8 interceptions and 47.1 passes per game last season.
But despite the faith entrusted in him particularly by Sir Alex Ferguson during his first seven seasons he never really cemented a spot with the England team under various coaches having won 27 of his 33 international caps whilst at United.
Last month Carrick completed the domestic set by adding the FA Cup to his five Premier League titles and two League Cups.
There’s also a solitary European Cup in his United collection.
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