Michael Carrick has always had one eye on the future while being at Man Utd, and his actions after the Brighton one suggest one player will be a huge part of it.
The season finished in style for Man Utd as they brushed aside Brighton 3-0 while Bruno Fernandes broke the Premier League assist record.
It draws the curtain on a miraculous run for Michael Carrick after taking over an embattled team in January.
As he prepares for a gauntlet next season, he seems to have identified this season’s odd man out, who is set for greatness next year.
‘Ayden Heaven can become Manchester United’s best ever centre back’ – Do you share the same optimism?
🔥 Ayden Heaven is getting some serious appreciation!
Michael Carrick with Ayden Heaven
Carrick’s man-management traits have been a key reason behind his success at Old Trafford.
Even when he’s not rotating the XI, he has the uncanny ability to make every player feel like an important part of the squad.
It’s why the likes of Joshua Zirkzee, Mason Mount, or even Tyrell Malacia have maintained a very professional and helpful dressing room.
Ayden Heaven has also been on the fringes of the first XI under Carrick, but unlike the names mentioned above, Carrick clearly thinks he’s one for the future.
After United’s 3-0 win against Brighton, Carrick was seen paying special attention to Heaven, ensuring that he knew how important he would be for the Man Utd manager.
Manchester Evening News‘ Steven Railston saw Carrick spend about 30 seconds with Heaven after the game, which speaks volumes about how highly he is rated.
This is not the first time Carrick has gone the extra step to help a struggling player, as he did the same with Amad through his rough patch.
Heaven’s true breakout is next season
Counting the last six months of the previous season, Heaven will start his third season at Old Trafford in the summer.
In both seasons, he has surpassed expectations, but always left wanting more, either due to an injury or because of a lack of fixtures.
Provided he stays injury-free, next season is when he will truly be tested and challenged to have a breakout, because United will be in four competitions.
With Lisandro Martinez’s minutes needing to be managed, Heaven will easily play at least 25 games in all competitions if United are successful.
If he keeps up his form in those games, then Heaven will truly break out and become a foundational piece for the Utd defence that he has been close to becoming ever since he played his first game for the senior team.
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