Michael Carrick, Manchester United player

Michael Carrick plays an unobtrusive, yet sophisticated game. The midfield player joined Manchester United from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2006.

Carrick grew up in the north-east of England. He was prominent in schoolboy football, where he played more as a striker than in midfield. His first senior club, West Ham United, converted him into a holding midfield player and he made his debut for them in August 1999. He played for West Ham over five seasons, including the disappointing 2002-2003 season, when he missed a lot of games through injury and when his club ended the season being relegated. In the summer of 2004 he moved to Tottenham Hotspur, where he stayed for two years. Ahead of the 2006-2007 season, Carrick signed for Manchester United. His initial transfer fee was about £14m, with further monies to be paid dependent upon appearances. There were those who believed this too large a sum, although the team’s subsequent success may have led some to re-consider. After three Premiership-winning seasons, Carrick had a disappointing season in 2009-2010. Despite making forty-four appearances, he often seemed to play without form or confidence.

Carrick’s play is usually classy and unhurried. He is a brilliant passer of the ball, combining vision with accuracy. His quietness means he rarely dominates a game and he doesn’t score as many goals as he might, but he remains a valuable member of the Manchester United squad.

Carrick first played for England in 2001. He went to South Africa for the 2010 Word Cup, but didn't appear in any England games.

profile last updated August 2010