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Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has welcomed the increasing level of competition at Old Trafford next season following the recent arrivals of Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin.
The 33-year-old managed to make just 18 Premier League appearances for United last season as a succession of untimely injuries ruled him out of action for long periods.
However, his spell in the first-team fold between November and January was widely praised as his composed and measured approach in the centre of the park helped Louis van Gaal's side enjoy a 10-game unbeaten run.
Although the former England international still appears to be one the Dutchman's reliable deputies, his starting berth could be under threat next season now that Schweinsteiger's experience and Schneiderlin's presence have been added to the Red Devils' ranks.
Yet Carrick is relaxed about the situation and remains adamant that competition for places will only benefit the side, before adding that it is a situation he is no stranger to at the Theate of Dreams.
"Competition for places is good. Over the years there has always been competition for places at this club," the veteran told the club's official website.
"As players, you want the best players here and you want the squad to be as strong as possible and challenging for everything we’re involved and, to do that, you need the best players and the strength in depth," Carrick insisted.
United's strongest line up remains unclear as much will rely on Van Gaal's plans in regards to formation as well as personnel.
Meanwhile, the fact that Carrick signed a one-year extension to his United contract as recently as March suggests that he is still in his manager's thoughts, despite a summer of significant strengthening.
