Veteran Carrick's huge role to play

FORMER Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs believes Michael Carrick has an important part to play for Jose Mourinho's side next season.

The ex-England midfielder, who turns 36 next month, has just signed a year-long extension to the contract which was due to expire to keep him at Old Trafford for another campaign - his 12th at the club.

Carrick made 38 appearances this season - only eight of which were as a substitute - with 23 starts in the Premier League and Giggs, who played for United until he was 40, believes his former team-mate's experience will be vital in the coming 12 months.

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"Michael just makes players around him play better," said the Welshman (below).

"He's got that calming influence that you can see on and off the pitch, it's a pleasure to play with him.

"When you play with players, you want to trust them when they have the ball and Michael is one of those players.

"When he is on the pitch, you can trust him. He always makes the right decision."

Carrick himself is looking forward to recharging his batteries over the summer and returning for pre-season with the focus on winning more silverware after an EFL Cup and Europa League double this season.

"I can totally switch off now when I go away with the family," he told MUTV after a testimonial at Old Trafford to mark his 11 years with the club.

"I will probably throw my phone in the sea so I don't have to answer any more calls or emails. Just get my head together again and be ready again to be back for pre-season and do it all over again and try and win some more trophies."