Carrick impressed by Van Persie move

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has hailed the impending arrival of Robin van Persie at Old Trafford as a "massive boost" for the club.

Van Persie is expected to make the switch from Arsenal to United in the next 24 hours after the two clubs agreed a fee for the 29-year-old.

Carrick heard the news after making his England comeback in the friendly international with Italy, and said: "Someone mentioned in the dressing room about Van Persie and if it goes through, it will be brilliant."

He added: "He had a terrific season and he will further strengthen our squad. It is a great boost going into the new season.

"He is a world class player and we have always been about bringing in players of that ability.

"Can it make the difference between second and first? There wasn't much difference so hopefully we can go that step further!

"But the club has always had strength in depth and it is about the squad and not the 11 on the pitch."