Carrick: Routine & Rhythm Are Key

Michael Carrick says a key part of pre-season is getting back into "the rhythm and routine" of training and matches.

The 35-year-old is part of the Manchester United squad that touched down in Shanghai on Wednesday morning for Tour 2016, presented by Aon, ahead of friendly matches against Borussia Dortmund on Friday and Manchester City on Monday.

Fresh from signing a one-year contract extension earlier in the summer, Michael spoke to MUTV about the importance of pre-season and getting back into the groove as quickly as possible.

"This time of year, individually and as a team, it’s important to get yourselves ready. You want to get back in the habit of doing the right things and getting in the rhythm and routine again and feeling your way back into it," he said, when asked about a player's aim for pre-season.

"Everyone does that in different ways; some are right on it at the start of pre-season and for others it takes a bit longer. It’s about being ready for the start of the season, that’s the most important thing.

"It’s good that we can go and see our fans all around the world," he continued. "This year it’s China with two big games so we’re all looking forward to it. Of course you want to win the games too and get positive feelings again and carry that right through pre-season."

While the tour will provide Jose Mourinho and his coaching staff with important opportunities to work closely with the players on the training pitch, the trip will also act as a good team-bonding exercise.

"There’s a variety of things that you gain from going on these trips," added Carrick. "The quality of the opposition is very high, so that will test us, and it’s a good chance to get to know the new signings in the squad and the manager."