Wednesday, October 07, 2009

Carrick keen to hit top form and be with England

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is happy with the start he's made to the season.

The player had struggled to work his way into United boss Sir Alex Ferguson's starting line-up in the opening weeks of the campaign.

However, Ferguson remarked last week that he feels Carrick is always a slow starter, and works his way into his stride as the season wears on.

"The manager just said I am at my best a month or so into the season when I have a few games under my belt," Carrick told reporters at the England squad press conference today.

"That is how he sees it and I don't have an issue with it.

"But even though we have a number of midfielders who are doing well and the manager is rotating his squad, I have still played seven games, which is probably as much as anyone. That said, hopefully now I can start hitting top form."

Carrick has not featured at all for Fabio Capello's side in the course of their flawless qualifying campaign, but is keen to use the last two group games to press a claim to be in the squad for the World Cup finals next summer.


He acknowledges though that with the likes of Gareth Barry, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard to displace, it is a tough ask.


"I am hoping to get a chance. That is why I am here," he added.

"I am eager to get involved and want to play for my country as much as I can.

"I have played a lot of games in Europe for Manchester United and feel I have gained a lot of experience since the last World Cup.

"I am sure that will help me if I get a chance on Saturday.

"It is a challenge. But that is what you expect. There are so many world-class players here, who are all playing at the top level.

"Everyone is pushing for that starting berth. The results speak for themselves. We have won eight matches so far and we need to keep that momentum going."

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