Carrick looks at bigger picture

Midfielder accepts Ferguson's changes

Last updated: 28th February 2008

Carrick looks at bigger picture

Carrick: Happy to fight for his place

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Michael Carrick feels Sir Alex Ferguson's midfield rotation policy is 'working well' as Manchester United challenge for three trophies.

In recent weeks, Ferguson has been chopping and changing his central midfielders, with Paul Scholes, Anderson, Owen Hargreaves and Darren Fletcher also vying for a spot.

Carrick started alongside Fletcher in last weekend's win at Newcastle United, while Anderson, Scholes and Hargreaves started the previous game at Lyon.

England international Carrick understands the need to keep the players fresh and has backed United manager Ferguson's judgement.

"You have to get used to it," Carrick told MUTV. "It's not a case of getting dropped, it's about making the right decisions for the benefit of the team.

"You have to look at the bigger picture for the whole season. The boss has got all the experience in the world, he knows exactly what is required over the course of the campaign.

Quality

"You don't want to be sat on the sidelines, but you can't get too down. Your chance comes round pretty quickly.

"As the years go on it's becoming more and more of a squad game. Every game is important. But everyone here is happy to miss the odd game if you can win trophies at the end of the season.

"There's so much quality in our midfield, and the advantage of that is that you can adapt to different games, opposition or scenarios.

"Each player has their own strengths, it's not like we have five players who are all exactly the same.

"There is a good variety, and that gives the boss options. So far it's worked pretty well. Players have come in and out, and it hasn't seemed to affect us. It's working really well."

Pleased

Carrick struggled for form in the first half of the season after being sidelined with a fractured elbow, but feels he is approaching the top of his game.

"I'm pleased with my own form," he added. "As the season has gone on I feel I've got stronger and stronger and I'm happy with the way things are going.

"But now is the time where we need everyone to be in top form with important games coming up every week."