Manchester United name Michael Carrick new captain

July 11 (UPI) -- With Wayne Rooney reunited with Everton, Manchester United named Michael Carrick as its new captain.

Carrick, 35, moved to United in 2006 from Tottenham. He signed a one-year contract extension with the team in May. United announced his captaincy on Tuesday.

"It feels great and it is such a huge honor to captain such a great club," Carrick told MUTV. "It is my 12th year now and I came as a 25 year old. I never thought I could be here for so long and achieve so much."

"Now, to lead the boys and look after the young boys, to guide them in some ways, it is a nice thing and a real pleasure. I came to this club as a footballer and I am now a huge fan. I have grown to love the club over the years and to be in this position is very special for me."

The veteran played in 38 games last season, including 23 Premier League showings. Carrick has 24 goals in 459 career appearances for United.

United's previous captains are a decorated crew, including: David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and John Terry.

Rooney moved to Everton on Sunday after more than a dozen years with United.

"I'm privileged to be captain of this incredible football club @manutd, I love the place and I'll give everything to achieve more success," Carrick Tweeted Tuesday.

He also had a fond farewell for Rooney on Monday.

"Blew me away by how good he was from day 1. Outrageous. Had ups n downs but what a ride we've been on. Gonna miss him. Good luck Pal #Legend," he tweeted.

Carrick has been a part of five Premier League titles, an FA Cup victory and a Champions League title.