Carrick: China Trip Will Surprise Signings

Michael Carrick’s new deal at Manchester United means he will be a senior figure in the squad during next month’s trip to China for Tour 2016, presented by Aon.

The midfielder has agreed a one-year contract extension and is set to join Jose Mourinho’s squad on the plane for games against Borussia Dortmund in Shanghai (22 July) and Manchester City in Beijing (25 July).

Carrick is a veteran of such trips and knows all about the passion of United’s fans in Asia. But he believes new signings such as Eric Bailly and the younger members of the squad will be taken aback by the welcome they receive.

The Reds are visiting China for the first time since 2013 and Carrick told us: "I think it comes down to the fact that the fans there don’t see the players up close very often.

"So when we do go across, it’s as if the passion and enthusiasm has built up over two or three years and it’s unleashed when we land at the airport.

"I’m sure it’ll be something quite surprising for the new boys and it’s always great to see."

Of all Carrick’s experiences in Asia with United, the brief but memorable trip to Japan in December 2008 stands out.

"Without doubt it would have to be winning the Club World Cup," he said. "It was in the middle of the season, playing for a trophy, which was strange. But it’s definitely the best memory I’ve got from playing out there."