Carrick presence gives boost to Man Utd youngsters - Armer

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Manchester United Under-18s captain Dan Armer says the club's academy players definitely get a boost knowing Michael Carrick takes such a keen interest in them.

Unlike Ruben Amorim, who only watched United's Under-21 side once - when they were playing a match at Carrington while he was present anyway for a first-team training session - Carrick has been a regular at youth matches at Leigh Sports Village and Old Trafford this season.

His son Jacey was on the bench for the Under-18 match against Newcastle earlier this season that Armer started and the Scotland youth international says Carrick's presence is welcome.

"It's really good," said the central defender.

"Obviously, he's got Jacey in the 16s, so he's been in and around it for a while watching all the 18s and 16s games.

"For us it's really good. It makes everyone push a little bit more to try to impress. It definitely helps when he comes and watches."

It remains to be seen whether Carrick will be at Selhurst Park when Armer skippers United in their Premier League Under-18 cup final against Crystal Palace on Wednesday.

United beat Palace in extra-time in their FA Youth Cup semi-final on Friday.

Star midfielder Jim Thwaites praised Armer's captaincy, saying he is "the one everyone listens to", adding: "I can see why Darren (Fletcher) has chosen him as captain."

For Preston-born Armer, taking responsibility is something that comes naturally.

"Throughout all the ages, I've tried to be a leader within the group," he said.

"Being captain gives you a bit more responsibility, whether it's in the dressing room saying a few things or pulling people to the side and giving them bits of info. I try as much as I can to do things like that."