Carrick Out Of Opener

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is to miss the start of the Premier League season because of an ankle injury, the club have confirmed.

Carrick picked up the problem during United's 7-1 defeat of an Airtricity League of Ireland side on Wednesday.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said the 29-year-old will be out for "a couple of weeks" as a result.

"Michael hurt his ankle. It is nothing serious but he will miss the start of the season," Ferguson added.

The injury means Carrick will be unavailable for Sunday's Community Shield contest with Chelsea and United's Premier League opener with Newcastle on 16 August.