Michael Carrick insists midfield battle is crucial

Michael Carrick believes the midfield battle against Arsenal will prove decisive in which team reaches the Champions League Final.

Manchester United's central trio of Carrick, Anderson and Darren Fletcher dominated proceedings at Old Trafford last week as the home side threatened to run riot in the first half.

But the Gunners were able to stem the tide to a degree in the second period and the England star claims that area will be the key to booking a place in Rome against either Chelsea or Barcelona.

"The midfield is a key department," said the 27-year-old. "Games can be won and lost in that area and last week we played well, especially in the first half.

"We did some of the things we set out to achieve but we have got to go out tomorrow and do the right things all over again. Experience helps us but they have got very good players in the midfield and throughout the team. When it comes to a one-off game, who knows? We won't be counting on experience so much as it's all about the one game now."

Carrick insists his team-mates will not be drawn into a Premier League sub plot as they bid to become the first side to retain the Champions League trophy. He said: "It's different in the respect that it's a European game and the incentive to get to the final is greater than normal."