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The Unsung United Hero: Michael Carrick

By Erick Mitchell

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN - MAY 24: Ashley Young, Michael Carrick and Wayne Rooney of Manchester United celebrate with the Europa League trophy after the UEFA Europa League Final match between Manchester United and Ajax at Friends Arena on May 24, 2017 in Stockholm, Sweden. (Photo by John Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images)
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN - MAY 24: Ashley Young, Michael Carrick and Wayne Rooney of Manchester United celebrate with the Europa League trophy after the UEFA Europa League Final match between Manchester United and Ajax at Friends Arena on May 24, 2017 in Stockholm, Sweden. (Photo by John Peters/Man Utd via Getty Images) /
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This past Sunday Michael Carrick had his testimonial match at Old Trafford with the 08 XI.

Looking at all the world class players in the last 11 years at United, Michael Carrick isn’t one of the headliners. In fact, the Newcastle born man might even slip your mind. Carrick isn’t known for cracking goals or meaty tackles in the middle of the pitch. Sunday taught us what the real Michael Carrick is about: A man of class and character.

Carrick’s testimonial headlined both United legends and other icons of the sport on Sunday. Old Trafford had over 70,000 fans to honor the midfielder for his consistent play and leadership.

Carrick even himself admitted that he had worries anyone was going to show up in a joking manner. It was my first ever experience at the Theatre of Dreams, and I could really feel the graciousness towards the crowd that made me like the man even more.

Carrick was extremely humble thanking everyone special in his road to the top of the football world. The moment that stuck out the most was him honoring those who passed away in the Manchester terrorist attack and inviting the families to the match.

Seeing the heroes of the 2008 Champions League winning squad was a dream come true, but the hour surely belonged to Michael Carrick. The match was very entertaining from Robbie Keane’s energy to Gary Neville’s unforgettable volley attempt. But the highlight of the match wasn’t even Jamie Carragher’s tackle on Gary Neville. It was a screamer that Michael Carrick scored from about 25 yards off the post to level the match.

It was a perfect ending to a perfect evening for the man who has been awarded a new one year contract. Although he doesn’t set the stat sheet on fire, Michael always does what he is asked. This season in all competitions he completed 89.8 percent of his passes. When United seemed to be sloppy in midfield, Carrick held it all together when needed.

Next season will most likely be Michael’s last season playing but he’s had a great United career, winning trophy after trophy. When his day does come, the current vice-captain will undoubtably be missed by the United faithful.

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