Carrick confirmed as United skipper

MICHAEL Carrick has been confirmed as the new captain of Manchester United following Wayne Rooney's exit.

All-time top scorer and captain Rooney's return to boyhood club Everton after 13 years was confirmed on Sunday.

United boss Jose Mourinho has moved quickly to name a new skipper, with long-serving midfielder Carrick handed the captain's armband.

"It feels great and it is such a huge honour to captain such a great club," he said.

"It is my 12th year now and I came as a 25-year-old. I never thought I could be here for so long and achieve so much.

"Now, to lead the boys and look after the young boys, to guide them in some ways, it is a nice thing and a real pleasure.

"I came to this club as a footballer and I am now a huge fan. I have grown to love the club over the years and to be in this position is very special for me."

Carrick joined United from Tottenham in 2006 and his contribution was recognised in a testimonial last month.

The 35-year-old is the longest serving player at Old Trafford following Rooney's exit, although he looked set to leave the club last summer.

A change in management saw Carrick handed a one-year deal, then a further contract extension this summer.