Michael Carrick selects his midfield replacement ahead of retirement

Michael Carrick believes that young midfielder Scott McTominay has the abiliity to replace him in the Manchester United midfield in the the long run.The 36-year-old is currently in the last year of his contract at Old Trafford and is set to take up a coaching role from next season at the club.

The veteran star who arrived from Tottenham Hotspur in 2006 was brought in by Sir Alex Ferguson to replace former skipper Roy Keane. In the decade that followed, the former England international became a key cog in the midfield - helping United to five Premier League titles in addition to a Champions League crown in 2007/08. 
 

Speaking of the young McTominay's ability, Carrick told ManUtd.com, “Scotty has done great.

“The improvement has been so great over the last six to 12 months, when we’ve seen him training with us a lot more. You can see that he steps up to every challenge that has been set in every environment. 

“He is an athlete. He is strong, quick and very good on the ball. He has got all of the attributes to have a really good career. 

“He just needs those breaks at the right times, which so far he has had. Hopefully he will keep taking his chances.

"He is willing to learn and listen. That is one of the biggest things for a young lad, to have that attitude. Of course I am here to help him and I try to do it as much as I can. 

“I know he will take my place some day and that is not something I would be afraid of, or try to put him off, because it is important to help the future and Scott is definitely that.

"It is my responsibility to do all I can to help him. 

“It is something I really enjoy, to see the younger lads coming in and getting a chance. Whether it be in my position or not, it’s how the game goes and how the club evolves.”

Carrick has been out for the majority of the season after he underwent a cardiac ablation procedure to correct an abnormal heart rhythm. He made his first appearance of the season last weekend - coming on as a second half substitute in 1-0 defeat away to Newcastle.

His return to the squad should serve as a timely boost for Jose Mourinho who sees his side still competing for three different trophies. And whilst Carrick while provide the much-needed cover, all fans of Manchester United will like to see McTominay make progress as well in the first team.