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Man Utd have Michael Carrick to thank for recent resurgence - Jamie Redknapp
MANCHESTER UNITED'S recent resurgence is down to Michael Carrick, claims former Liverpool hero Jamie Redknapp.
Michael Carrick snuffing out a Liverpool attack
United climbed to third in the table after seeing off the Reds 3-0 yesterday at Old Trafford.
Carrick turned in a solid performance despite being deployed at centre back.
United have won six games in a row since Carrick's return, and Redknapp has pinpointed the 33-year-old as the catalyst for their change in fortunes.
"Michael Carrick has started the last six games for Manchester United and they have won every one. That is not a coincidence," Redknapp told The Daily Mail.
"He is so versatile and experienced and his calming influence is helping the rest of the team.
"He is a good, honest player and he doesn’t try to overcomplicate things — all he has is a nasty habit of passing to his own team-mates!
"But it’s not just that he takes the easy option every time.
Juan Mata was also praised for his excellent display
Carrick has started the last six games for United and they've won every one. That is not a coincidence
"He is always looking to pass it forward and get his attacking players on the ball in dangerous positions."
Redknapp also singled out Juan Mata for praise following his contribution.
He added: "People criticise Mata for not having an impact in the biggest games, but you couldn’t fault him on Sunday.
"Yes, he got lucky with his goal, which he scored from an offside position, but his assist for Robin van Persie’s strike was superb.
"No other player on the pitch would try a pass as cute as that. It was a Mata moment of magic."
United now stand eight points behind table toppers Chelsea.