Michael Carrick: It's special to be back in England fold

Tuesday 24 Mar 2015
Michael Carrick eyes his first England cap since October 2013

Michael Carrick admits he is excited to be with the England squad and says the mood is positive at St. George's Park.

The midfielder was forced to pull out of Roy Hodgson's last squad in November due to injury, but his recent form for Manchester United has seen him called up once again.

England v Lithuania

European Qualifier
7.45pm, Friday 27 March
Wembley Stadium connected by EE
Live on ITV1

The 33-year-old has not played for the Three Lions since October 2013 but now he is back in the fold he is going to make the most of his chance as England seek a seventh consecutive victory on Friday.

"It's great to be back with England. We've had a good week at Manchester United and when things are going well you just want to keep playing games," said Carrick.

"I am just enjoying my football and you get to a certain age and you don’t actually know how long you have left. 

"I feel great at the moment and I am just happy to be part of it and make the most of it because it’s a special thing to be involved. I am very grateful for that."

He continued: "Credit to the manager and staff here for putting a run together after the World Cup. We have real positive feelings around the squad.

"I am enjoying my football. You get to a certain age and you don't know how long you have left."

"I love seeing the younger lads coming into the squad and performing with an enthusiasm and energy. There is a good feeling around."

Much of the talk around Hodgson's latest squad has been the inclusion of Tottenham striker Harry Kane, who tops the Premier League goalscoring chart with Diego Costa.

And while Carrick admits that the 21-year-old's form is exceptional, the midfielder feels the England squad is full of talented players.

"The progress Harry Kane has made has been sensational, he's gone up two or three levels. His performances keep improving," Carrick added.

"Wayne Rooney has played in different positions this season. His record for England is something he should be proud of.

"Both Phil Jones and Chris Smalling have been terrific and have come on a lot this season. They're turning into really top centre-halves."

Carrick added: "Ryan Mason has done really well in training today and enjoyed it. He's got a few Tottenham mates here in the squad with him too.

"It's a great feeling playing at Wembley Stadium in front of a full-house and it is something we won't take for granted on Friday."

By FA Staff