Louis van Gaal HAILS Michael Carrick influence as Man Utd ease past Spurs

MANCHESTER UNITED boss Louis van Gaal has hailed the influence of vice-captain Michael Carrick for his efforts in the 3-0 win over Tottenham.

Michael CarrickGETTY

Michael Carrick bags Manchester United's second at Old Trafford

The England midfielder assisted Marouane Fellaini for the opener at Old Trafford and bagged himself ten minutes later to double their lead.

United skipper Wayne Rooney stole the headlines with his 'boxing' celebration for the third and final goal, but Van Gaal has singled out Carrick for praise.

"We can be very pleased with the performance, the result and our reaction to the defeat against Arsenal," Van Gaal said.

Michael Carrick is not not my second captain for nothing

Louis van Gaal

"When you score goals, your confidence raises and you can pass more quickly, but Tottenham wanted to play also and you always need two teams who want to play and you have more space to play football.

"Michael Carrick is not not my second captain for nothing. He is one of the best passers also, not only wide but also forward. We need midfielders who have that passing.

"When you can also score the second goal you have a big influence in the game."

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