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Michael Carrick has revealed that he is excited to play alongside Manchester United's first summer signing Ander Herrera in the midfield next season and hailed the Spain U23 international’s qualities.
The 24-year-old arrived at Old Trafford last week and was the club's first arrival of the summer transfer window as the Red Devils prepare for a new season under their incoming manager Louis van Gaal.
Carrick has played against Herrera during United's Europa League clash against Athletic Bilbao. The England international believes the Spaniard's quality will certainly add value to the Red Devils's midfield.
“I have played against him and he is a terrific player,” Carrick told Sky Sports.
“The more quality we have, the better, and he is certainly right up there. So I am sure he is looking forward to getting started and getting the first game under his belt and fitting in. We will certainly make him feel as welcome as we can.”
After the end of the 2013-14 season, United allowed two of their star players Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand leave Old Trafford on a free transfer as their contract expired on June 30.
Carrick, who played alongside both Ferdinand and Vidic is aware of the impact the duo had while they were at United. The 32 year old believes the two central defenders' services will be missed next season, but believes it will be opportunity for current crop of players to impress and step-up next season.
“(They are) two huge players, huge characters and true legends at the club and rightly so. Yes they will be missed for what they bring, but at the same time it’s a chance for other people to step in and we have certainly got the talent to do that," United midfielder added.
The Red Devils currently have Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans as their first choice centre-halves in the squad. If the reports are to be believed, United are closing in on signing Arsenal skipper Thomas Vermaelen.
