Find out who makes the Premier League’s veteran XI…
Despite manager Louis van Gaal having never seen him play in a competitive fixture, Manchester United are ready to give 33-year-old midfielder Michael Carrick a one-year contract extension as he prepares to return to action following ankle surgery – report the Sun.
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To some this might seem something of a strange decision, especially when you consider United’s multi-million pound recruitment drive that has been taking place under their new boss.
However, there is no substitute for experience – as the following team of stars prove. Check out this Premier League all-star team, consisting only of veterans aged 31 or over.
GK) Petr Cech (Chelsea, 32)
He might be on the bench at Chelsea this season, but he is still one of the best keepers in the Premier League, and would be welcome in this team.
RB) Bacary Sagna (Manchester City, 31)
An experienced Premier League defender from his time with Arsenal, who deserves more than a spot on the bench at Man City.
LB) Paul Konchesky (Leicester City, 33)
The former Liverpool, Fulham and West Ham defender who is enjoying one final crack at the Premier League with newly promoted Leicester.
CB) Phil Jagielka (Everton, 32)
Developed later than many of his teammates in this side, working his way up to the Premier League with Sheffield United before his move to Everton.
CB) John Terry (Chelsea, 33)
The former England captain and current Blues skipper remains one of the most dependable centre backs in the division.
CM) Michael Carrick (Manchester United, 33)
Was considered one of United’s key players under Sir Alex Ferguson, and still has a role to play sitting in front of the defence.
CM) Yaya Toure (Manchester City, 31)
The powerhouse midfielder has had an average start to the campaign with City, but he would be the driving force behind this team, working forward and back to dictate games.
CM) Steven Gerrard (Liverpool, 34)
The Liverpool skipper would join Michael Carrick in a holding midfield role, with his range of passing supplying the front three.
ST) Robin van Persie (Manchester United, 31)
The dynamic Manchester United striker is still a formidable force with the Red Devils, and will be the perfect man to lead the line in this team.
ST) Samuel Eto’o (Everton, 33)
The lasting pace of Everton’s Cameroonian international will help him link the midfield with the forward trio.
ST) Didier Drogba (Chelsea, 36)
Leading the line, waiting for the close range finishes and cheeky tap-in’s, is the Blues iconic Ivorian, who may have slowed down, but sure knows how to finish.
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