If ever a player made the game look so gloriously simple, Carrick is that man. A master of one-touch play, he always has a picture in his mind before the ball comes, meaning you do not often see him get caught in possession. That is partly why he is underrated by some -because he is not on the ball long enough to catch the eye. And in an ever-changing midfield at Manchester United, Carrick has been the mainstay, the dependable presence from which so much originates. Without doubt, the midfielder has been United’s most consistent player this season. The champions elect owe him a lot.