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Pep Guardiola Says Michael Carrick Is 'One Of The Best Holding Midfielders I've Ever Seen'

Pep Guardiola Says Michael Carrick Is 'One Of The Best Holding Midfielders I've Ever Seen'

High praise from the City boss on Michael Carrick.

Josh Lawless

Josh Lawless

Ahead of the 2017 Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola showered praise on Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick.

The Manchester City boss talked about the United players he admired in his press conference ahead of the showdown with the Red Devils and picked out Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard, saying that "England is safe" with these type of players.

However, he also spoke glowingly about Carrick, who joined United from Tottenham in 2006 and has made over 400 appearances for the club.

"I am a big fan of Michael [Carrick]," the former Barcelona boss said at the time.

"He is one of the best holding midfielders I've ever seen in my life by far.

"He's the level of Xabi Alonso and Sergio Busquets."

Image: PA
Image: PA

He continued: "[Marcus] Rashford is a big talent of course and [Jesse] Lingard.

"England is safe, you have outstanding players.

"Not just here in City - United, Tottenham, Chelsea. Come on, guys, you can do it [with the] international team!"

For a period, Carrick was not a hit with United fans but as time has gone on, the 35-year old has become a vital component in the United side and keeps the team ticking over.

Guardiola, who played as a holding midfielder with great distinction himself, stressed how big a fan he is of Carrick in the following clip below.

It doesn't get much better than that.

Do you agree with Guardiola's comments on Carrick?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Featured Image Credit:

Topics: Manchester City, Football News, Football, Manchester United, Pep Guardiola, red devils, Premier League, Michael Carrick, Old Trafford