Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Michael Carrick is having his "best season" for the club.

While the England midfielder has only scored one goal in all competitions this campaign, he has earned a number of plaudits for his passing ability during his 22 appearances.

With that in mind, Ferguson has described the 31-year-old's contribution as "magnificent".

"I think he's been magnificent," said Ferguson. "It's his best season at the club and he's commanding that position. He's doing absolutely brilliantly.

"Even when he came on against West Ham, he helped ease us through the last 20 minutes. Good players do that. He came on and settled us down."

Carrick joined the Red Devils in 2006 from Tottenham Hotspur.