The coming of age of an unsung hero

Few people would grudge Michael Carrick anything. As the successor to Roy Keane's number 16 jersey and Manchester United's 5th most expensive signing of all time, expectations were always going to be on the higher side. Two successful seasons later, United's first choice central midfielder remains in the shade of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in the battle to don England colours.

Even for club, this West Ham youth academy product has allowed the likes of Ronaldo and Rooney to hog the limelight. Though there is no doubt as to which he craves more, the fact remains that Carrick is England's most underrated player.

Looking into Carrick's game for Manutd, what stands out is his versatility as central midfielder. He is very alert, fit, a sound tackler (you need one playing alongside Scholesy), an effortless passer with excellent vision and a more than adept shooter. Though he tends to hold himself back to allow the others to express themselves more, what is interesting is to note that he has been absolutely instrumental in a lot of United goals lately. Is he now England's best central midfielder, then?

Agreed, Steven Gerrard is as much of an attacking threat as many leading centre forwards. Add to that his phenomenal work rate and very good defensive qualities, and you already have a very well rounded central midfielder. Some terrific goals in crisis situations considered, who can blame those Merseysiders for elevating him to God-like status?

Frank Lampard may not be the most universally loved English footballer, but there is no denying the fact that he is still one of Chelsea's top performers. A delightful passer with a devilish presence inside the D, he is also superb in dead ball situations. Equally adept as both holding midfielder and support striker, an injury to Lampard really hurts Chelsea badly, the presence of Deco, Ballack, Essien, and Mikel notwithstanding. And that, sums it up.

Now, getting back to Carrick. Say what you like, consistency is still what makes champion teams. And even though he has had his bad days at the office, pardon the cliche, they have been few and far between. Week after week, he has turned up in jersey number 16 and more than just delivered the goods. He has never been flashy, but now he has started to impose himself more.

When you pick Carrick, you pick somebody who can last 120 minutes of end to end football without slagging towards the end. He may not perform magic on the field, but expect him to orchestrate the attack with panache if given liberties and sit just in front of the back four very capably if not. More often than not, however, he does both for Manchester United.

For sheer magic and ability, go for the man they chant as 'Stevie G'. For his terrific passing, expertise in dead ball situations and ominous presence in the D, go for Frank Lampard. For sheer performance on the pitch, I think the time has come to say, go for  Carrick. England have found Mr. Dependable. If only Mr. Capello chose to use his services...

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