Sunday 13 May 2018 23:58, UK
Michael Carrick used his farewell speech to underline Manchester United's ongoing support for Sir Alex Ferguson's recovery, while also thanking current boss Jose Mourinho for giving him the opportunity to undertake a coaching role at the club.
The club's greatest ever manager continues to receive hospital treatment following a brain haemorrhage last weekend but is out of intensive care after responding well to surgery.
Taking to the microphone after ending his 12-year playing career with United with a 1-0 win against Watford, Carrick was quick to spare a thought for the man who brought him to the club in 2006.
"It has been a tough week for everyone. He is a major part of the family, Sir Alex, and he's had a tough week this week," Carrick said.
"I just want to say all our thoughts and prayers go to Sir Alex for his recovery.
"I need to thank Jose for giving me the opportunity. It is an unbelievable opportunity for me. I look forward to working with him and learning from him.
"He's one of the best. He'll teach me some things and we're going to have some success in the near future, I'm certain of that."
Addressing the fans, Carrick added: "I'd like to say a massive thank you to everyone for their support over the years, it's been unbelievable.
"I have a lot of memories to cherish, some I'll never forget, especially of this place. It's an amazing place to play football. It's the greatest club in the world and I thank you for your support over the last 12 years."
Mourinho revealed his grand plans for Carrick after the match, insisting the midfielder can replace the outgoing assistant Rui Faria when he is ready.
"When he has his badges, when he has his pro licence, when he makes the bridge from player to assistant," Mourinho said. "I don't think it [an immediate appointment] makes sense when Rui is leaving after 17 years. I have nobody in the world of football ready to be assistant manager. Nobody.
"Moving forward I will organise my coaching staff in a way where the assistant manager figure doesn't exist. I'm going to have coaches, assistant coaches, I'm going to have fitness coaches and a structure where they have specialists in different areas. My analysts.
"I'm going to bring some people in that until this moment you [the press] didn't come up with the name yet."
