Michael Carrick says he enjoyed regular chats with Alex Ferguson and appreciated his former boss’ advice before taking over as Middlesbrough manager.
Carrick was unveiled as Boro manager this week, his first permanent managerial post after a brief spell as caretaker manager at Manchester United last season.
It’s a big job for his first as full-time boss, with Middlesbrough fighting for 21st place in the Championship with much higher ambitions than a relegation battle in the second tier.
The former England midfielder says his old coach is helping him and they speak to the Scot regularly, imparting plenty of wisdom on their former player.
“I have spoken to Sir Alex several times. I spoke to him more after I stopped playing – I didn’t want to get too close to him when I was a player,” Carrick told a press conference after being unveiled as Boro boss.
“I talked to him a lot. It is documented that he takes real pride and care in helping former players develop into coaches, managers, and with pride and care.
“He certainly did that with me, and I really appreciate the advice he gave me.”
Carrick, who played 464 times for United, winning five Premier League titles and one Champions League, says Ferguson’s influence on him was huge, changing his career and his life.
“I thought I knew football to a certain extent until I came to United and it taught me a completely different way of living, breathing, playing football, how to win, and it all comes from the boss,” said the 41-year-old. years.
“He’s been a huge, huge influence, improved my game, made me a better person in a lot of ways, so I have a lot to thank him for.”
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Michael Carrick reveals Alex Ferguson advice ahead of taking Middlesbrough job
