By Rugiri Kiarie
Michael Carrick was stretchered off the
field while representing England, following
an injury to his ankle during the Three
Lions’ friendly loss to Spain.
The midfielder had started the game but
was unable to complete it, after Chelsea
midfielder Pedro caught the 34-year-old
with a late challenge. Carrick was visibly
distraught as he left the field, as he is now
expected to be out of action for some time.
He had just made his way back into the
Manchester United starting XI but will now
be forced to work on his fitness before
making a claim for a place in the side.
Instead, the Reds will have to rely heavily
on Bastian Schweinsteiger. The German
has been a stalwart in the Man United
team since his arrival from Bayern Munich
this summer and, with Carrick unavailable,
he could see his involvement increase even
further.
At 31, Schweinsteiger certainly has a few
good years ahead of him but there are still
doubts over his fitness. The World Cup
winner played 90 minutes for his country
against France as the build up to next
summer’s European Championships
continues. United fans will be encouraged
to see Schweinsteiger’s match fitness
seems up to scratch as they prepare for a
crucial part of the season.
With the busy Christmas schedule fast
approaching, United’s squad depth will
surely be tested, especially with Carrick out
injured. Schweinsteiger will be the key man
to make sure the Reds can hold onto the
ball and he will need to be the key man in
helping set the team forward, something
Carrick is normally extremely proficient at.
Schweinsteiger’s experience and undoubted
ability have made him a hugely important
player since he came to Old Trafford and
he is about to see his stock rise further.
United’s success over the next couple of
months could be down to the midfielder’s
performances and there is no question that
he can set the team up nicely for a title
run-in at the end of the season.
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