Wayne Rooney has praised retiring Manchester United stalwart and "great friend" Michael Carrick, claiming that everyone at Old Trafford was aware of the midfielder's qualities.
Carrick, who has been at Old Trafford since 2006, will hang up his boots following Sunday's Premier League finale against Watford before joining Jose Mourinho's coaching staff.
Rooney, who played alongside Carrick both at United and in the England setup, stressed that the Wallsend-born player was one of the main reasons why the Red Devils enjoyed so much success over the past 12 years.
"He is obviously a great friend and a great player," Rooney, currently on the books at Everton, told the Manchester Evening News.
"Many people will say that he is underrated but to the lads in the dressing room, we knew his qualities and what he brought to the team. His passing ability and calming influence were a big part in us being so successful.
"He's a great lad, a great person. I shared many moments with him outside of football, at dinner or playing golf, so I've continued to see him. He's a friend I will have for a long time."
Carrick has made 463 appearances for Man United since his move from Tottenham Hotspur, winning a host of trophies including five Premier League titles, a Champions League and a Europa League.
Giuseppe Labellarte
