Although there is little doubt that Michael Carrick is approaching the end of his career with Manchester United, rumours of his imminent departure from Old Trafford appear to be false.
Carrick is now 36 and has only appeared once for the United first team – their facile Carabao Cup victory over Burton Albion – and is considered well down the pecking order at Old Trafford, despite being awarded the club Captain role when Wayne Rooney left in the summer.
Like many aging United players over the seasons who have enjoyed superb careers but found their game time ever more limited, they have found mid/lower Premier League clubs interested in taking them on and using their experience, as well as none too shabby talents, to aid their own Premier League survival and development – and Carrick is no exception, with Leicester, West Bromwich Albion and Stoke City all having shown an interest in him, as well as a host of Championship clubs, including fallen giants Aston Villa.
But Carrick seems determined to stay at United, being happy to remain as Club Captain, being used in a supporting role should more prominent midfielders fall by the wayside and, crucially, he manages the Manchester United Under 14 side as he looks to progress his Coaching badges that potentially could be of huge use to United in years to come.
Manager Jose Mourinho and the United faithful will be delighted to see Carrick stay at the club; he has been a tremendous servant since his move in 2006 and whilst he has been overshadowed by a few more illustrious colleagues over the seasons, few doubt the contribution he has made in keeping Manchester United at the forefront of English football.