Carrick Reflects On His 'Incredible' Day

Manchester United star Michael Carrick admitted his testimonial match went better than he could have wished for after more than 70,000 fans turned out to watch Sunday's action at Old Trafford.

The 35-year-old had the final say on the pitch by scoring a late equaliser for United's 2008 XI in a 2-2 draw against a Carrick All-Stars XI, featuring some of the best players he has faced during his career.

The fixture was a fitting way to mark the midfielder's 11 years of stellar service to the club and the day is certain to live long in the memory for Michael.

"It's incredible," he told MUTV. "I've pictured in recent weeks how the game was going to go and how the day was going to go and if everyone was going to be fit enough to play and all sorts of things.

"But the game was great – I think everyone enjoyed it – and to score was amazing, probably more amazing for my kids watching in the stands because they were begging for me to score today."

Carrick addressed the fans on the pitch both before and after the game and reiterated his appreciation of the widespread support he has received to put on the match, which raised vital funds for the veteran's chosen charities through the newly-created Michael Carrick Foundation.

“I cannot thank everyone enough – from the players to the staff to the fans," he said. "There's been so much help and support and I'm so proud of what we've achieved."

When asked if he will go out tonight with some of the guys in the dressing room to celebrate, he said: "Some of us will. Some of the guys have got to head back home but we're having a bit of a get together with my friends and my family and some of the boys. It will be a quiet night."

Carrick, who has won multiple trophies with United since joining the club from Tottenham Hotspur in 2006, recently signed a new deal to continue playing next season. But, for now, he is only thinking about taking a well-deserved break away from the spotlight.

"I think everybody deserves a break now, especially after last week when we had to move the kick-off time. A lot of changes had to be made so it's been quite a stressful week," he added.

"In the end, we played and it was a success and it was better than I could have hoped for, so I'm delighted.

"I can switch off now and go away with my family and probably throw my phone into the sea now so I don't have to take any more calls or emails and just get my head together to get ready for pre-season."