article_snippet: As United turned in their most dominant display of the season against Tottenham on Sunday, the influence of one man cannot be underestimated.
article_snippet: XI proved crucial at Old Trafford, and could be the turning point for United as they look to finish in the top four this season.
article_snippet: Michael Carrick (second left) heads Manchester United 2-0 up against Tottenham on Sunday .
article_snippet: But it was the composure and attacking intent that Michael Carrick provided on Sunday that United have missed so much in recent weeks - something which was not lost on Michael Carrick manager. '
article_snippet: Michael Carrick is not my second captain for nothing.
article_snippet: Michael Carrick is one of the best passers also, not only wide but also forward.
article_snippet: We need midfielders who have that passing,' said Van Gaal after the game.
article_snippet: Indeed, with Michael Carrick in the side United have picked up 2.2 points per game compared to just 1.6 without Michael Carrick.
article_snippet: The club have won 66.7% of the game the midfielder has played but than number drops to 42.9% without the England midfielder.
article_snippet: Ander Herrera (left) has impressed in midfield for United since signing from Athletic Bilbao in the summer .
article_snippet: Marouane Fellaini (left) has been played in an advanced midfield role for United this season .
article_snippet: Michael Carrick has been a mainstay of United's midfield for years now, anchoring the side from a deep position.
article_snippet: Whether Michael Carrick midfield partners have been of the necessary quality over the years is debatable, but with the likes of Ander Herrera (left) and Blind - as well as the revitalised Fellaini - now available, Michael Carrick should not have to carry the burden all by Michael Carrick.
article_snippet: At 33, however, Michael Carrick remains United's main man.
article_snippet: As well as Ander Herrera (left) and Blind have done in Herrera and Blind first seasons in English football,
article_snippet: neither have the authority or influence of Michael Carrick.
article_snippet: With trips to Liverpool, Chelsea and Everton to come too, Michael Carrick's big-game experience will also be key.
article_snippet: With nine games to go, United will be hoping Michael Carrick stays fit, because with Michael Carrick in the side, United have a much better chance of finishing in the top four.
highlights_snippet: United average 2.2 points per game with Michael Carrick and 1.6 without .
  
highlights_snippet: READ our player ratings for Man United's 3-0 win over Tottenham here .
  