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Michael Carrick replaces Wayne Rooney as Manchester United captain

Michael Carrick says he is "honoured" to be named Manchester United's new captain following Wayne Rooney's departure to Everton.

The 35-year-old midfielder will take the armband after Rooney's 13-year stay at Old Trafford came to end after he returned to his boyhood club this week.

Carrick, who arrived at the club from Tottenham in 2006, signed a new one-year deal at United in May, and he insists it will be a "pleasure" to lead Jose Mourinho's team next season.

He told Man United's website: "It feels great and it is such a huge honour to captain such a great club. 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 made 38 appearances last season, including 23 in the Premier League. But he didn't start a league game until November and was a substitute for both the EFL Cup final and Europa League final.

He may have to accept a further reduced role next season with United actively looking to sign a new holding midfielder before the close of the transfer window.

Sources have told ESPN FC that Tottenham's Eric Dier is Mourinho's preferred choice, ahead of Chelsea's Nemanja Matic.