The thing about Carrick is that people don't understand his role in the team. They expect him to be Pirlo, Iniesta or Xavi. Well, he isn't a playmaker. Atleast not in the typical sense. What he does is, intercepts the ball when an opposition player passes, then collect it and distribute it to the nearest player possible for United to get onto the attack. He positions himself so that a teammate in possession can give the ball back to him if necessary. THAT is his main duty in our team. This role is neither a completely defensive role and neither is it an attacking role. But it gives us possession. A LOT of it. When he is on song, Carrick is arguably our most important player on the pitch as it becomes impossible for the opposition to find passes in midfield. For eg. back in 09, when we had that streak where we didnt let in a single goal.... Carrick was a the top of his game at that time. Coincidence? Nope..