Utd announce Carrick testomonial
Michael Carrick has been awarded a testimonial by Manchester United to mark his 11-years with the club.
At the request of the United vice-captain, all profits will be distributed to his chosen charities through the newly-created Michael Carrick Foundation.
The major highlight of the testimonial will be a match between Manchester United 2008 XI and Michael Carrick All-Stars to be played at Old Trafford on Sunday 4th June 2017.
The confirmed list of players for the United team includes Edwin van der Sar, Gary Neville, Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs, while the All-Stars line-up will feature Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Michael Owen. More stars will be announced in the coming weeks.
The charities to which the testimonial proceeds will be distributed by the foundation will be based in Manchester and Newcastle initially, focusing on young people and their development.
Also benefiting will be projects of the Manchester United Foundation, which works across some of the most deprived areas of Greater Manchester.
The testimonial was awarded by the club at the request of a testimonial committee following Michael’s service of over eleven years to the club, including a recent period as vice-captain.
Michael Carrick said:
“To have played for the greatest football club for 11 years is something that I'm very proud of and it is an honour to have been given a testimonial.
"The game will be very special for myself and my family and I hope it will also be a memorable day of celebration for all involved.
"It is such a privilege to have this amazing opportunity and I'm excited at the prospect of bringing together some former team-mates as well as some of the best players I've played against.
"The incredible support I've received over the years is something I'm very grateful for and I could never thank you, the fans, enough.
"As much as the occasion is about football, I also see this as a chance to give something back.”
Utd Manager, Jose Mourinho, said:
“I am delighted Michael has been awarded a testimonial. Michael is a phenomenal person and a true professional.
"He gives stability in our game and mental freedom to the other guys around him to be more attacking. He has a big understanding of the game and is a great role model for our younger players.
"This will be a fitting way for Michael and his family to celebrate his achievements over the past 11 years and for Michael to create a lasting legacy through his foundation.”