ROBSON BACKS CARRICK

Bryan Robson predicts that United new boy Michael Carrick will eventually prove well worth the £18m that Sir Alex Ferguson shelled out in the summer.

“The problem for a player like Michael Carrick joining a new club is that he isn't a dynamic player.

“He is a very intelligent player and is a wonderful passer of the ball but he doesn't have that dynamism that hits you straight between the eyes and makes you an instant hit.

“United fans loved Roy Keane and they took to him right from the moment he arrived at Old Trafford as his game was in your face. It is probably easier for those kinds of guys to make an immediate impression.

“Players like Carrick probably have to work that bit harder to catch the eye and it will take longer. But you can be sure that he will get there. He will grow on them.

“Chelsea's recent dominance has intensified the challenge in the Premiership and the sooner United can win back the title, the better for everyone.

“However, I don't think anyone needs to be looking back over their shoulder at Old Trafford yet and worrying about those years without the crown growing.

“They have the players to rise to the challenge of knocking Chelsea off their pedestal and the players who won't be fazed by the pressure of doing that.”