Carrick: This title was tougher

Michael Carrick says that his second Premier League title was more difficult to win than the first – but he has already set his sights on a hat-trick of league championships.

Two titles in two years with the Reds, it’s been a success-filled start to the midfielder’s Old Trafford career. And now he’s got the trophy bug.

“Being champions last year, we wanted to prove that it wasn’t a one-off,” he told MUTV.

“This season wasn’t as straightforward as last season. We didn’t start too well and being behind Arsenal like we were, people were saying it was over. But to come out on top like we have done is very satisfying, we have really earned it.

“It was great winning it on the day. Last year, even though it was a fantastic feeling that we were champions, I was sat in the front room in my house when we won it.

"It’s not quite the same as winning your game to win the title. It was a terrific feeling, and once you get it you want more of it. We’re driving on for the third in row already.”

Such was Carrick’s focus on the job in hand at the JJB Stadium that he completely forgot about Chelsea’s game against Bolton Wanderers.

“I didn’t know until well after the final whistle what had happened at Stamford Bridge,” he admitted. “It was a good ten minutes after the final whistle when Mick Phelan [first-team coach] told me it was 1-1. Up until then I had forgotten all about it, I was so focused on the job we had to do.

“We knew that if we won the Chelsea result didn’t matter. That’s all I was interested in, but I think it’s better that we won it on points rather than goal difference. It shows we’re true champions.”

This title may have been more difficult to win, but Carrick says it wouldn’t have been possible had the squad not been strengthened in the summer. There is no doubt that the additions of Carlos Tevez, Owen Hargreaves, Anderson and Nani significantly boosted United’s stock.

“Determination and discipline within the squad was important,” he adds. “I think the lads that have come in have really strengthened the squad as whole.

"Everyone has played their part. If it wasn’t for the numbers and quality that we have, we might not be league champions right now.”