Ahead of Manchester United and Barcelona's meeting in the Champions League final, Spanish midfielder Xavi has paid tribute to the ability of the Red Devils' Michael Carrick.
Carrick has been in sound form for United since his switch from Tottenham Hotspur in 2006 and has fine-tuned his passing skills and his ability to break-up play.Such form has not gone unnoticed in Europe and Xavi commended Carrick for being a "complete player".
The European Championship winner told journalists today that, "Carrick gives United balance and can play defensively too.
"He passes well, has a good shot and is a complete player. United have a very good midfield at a high level and they're strong physically and technically.
"But we can't use any excuses at this stage and we'll play as we normally do.
"We won't change our philosophy."
Alan Dawson, Goal.com