Michael Carrick has praised Harry Maguire's importance to Manchester United amid uncertainty over the defender's future at Old Trafford. Maguire, whose contract expires at the end of the season, has been the subject of speculation but has impressed under Carrick's interim management.
The centre-back has started all eight Premier League matches since Carrick took charge, with the only defeat coming in Wednesday's 2-1 loss to Newcastle United. His resurgence has put him back in contention for a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the World Cup.
Speaking ahead of United's win over Crystal Palace, Carrick said: 'Harry's an impressive character. He's had a great career so far and hopefully there's a lot more to come. Within the squad there is that balance, you want that younger potential and excitement, but you need the sweet spot in the middle with players at the peak, and experience is massive.'
When asked if Maguire is delivering the best football of his career, Carrick replied: 'There is a case for that. As your career goes... the experience should make you a better player, we've seen that with Harry's performances of late. That's why experience is important.'
Should Carrick be appointed permanently, a new contract for Maguire could become a priority. United's next match is against Aston Villa on March 15.
