Carrick hungry for success with Manchester United
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Michael Carrick is eager to atone for a desperately disappointing 12 months.
Carrick is in line to face Newcastle in Manchester United's delayed opening game tonight knowing the pressure is on at Old Trafford following the loss of their Premier League title to Chelsea.
In addition, the 29-year-old failed to make it onto the pitch during the World Cup as he became an unused member of Fabio Capello's failing squad.
It leaves Carrick with a keen hunger ahead of the visit of his home-town team to Old Trafford.
"Last season was disappointing and I ended up having a hard summer," he admitted.
"But this is my fifth season and during that time I have gained a lot of experience.
"I am more determined than ever. When you don't get what you want, it hurts. You want it again badly.
"I am hungry for success, just as I was when I first came here."
As usual, Sir Alex Ferguson has plenty of choice, with Wayne Rooney, Michael Owen, Dimitar Berbatov and in-form new recruit Javier Hernandez all vying for a striking berth.
Carrick faces competition from Paul Scholes, Darren Fletcher and rising stars Darron Gibson and Tom Cleverley for the central midfield slots this term.
It now seems likely he will remain at United after being linked with various moves away from the club this summer, and will be especially keen to get a win this evening.
Hailing from Wallsend, a meeting with Newcastle is always a stand-out day for Carrick, even though he has never played for the St James' Park outfit in a career that has taken him to Old Trafford via West Ham and Tottenham.
He recognises the fact Chris Hughton's side will travel across the country fuelled by the confidence of last season's triumphs, when their stay in the Championship turned out to be far more brief that most pundits expected.
"Newcastle will be flying," said Carrick.
"They are back in the Premier League and what better place to start than Old Trafford.
"They obviously want to get off to a good start and build up some momentum themselves.
"It is only two years ago that we played them in the first game at Old Trafford and drew. Hopefully it will be better this time."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments