Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had revealed his regret at having never managed Michael Carrick .
The Manchester United star celebrate 11 years at Old Trafford with a testimonial against an assembled all-star side .
Stars from United's 2008 Champions League win featured, including Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra while the likes of John Terry, Jamie Carragher, Eric Abidal and Clarence Seedort lined up for a Michael Carrick All-Star side.
And while plaudits came from all corners before the game, including from legendary United manager Sir Alex Ferguson , Arsenal boss Wenger paid his own tribute to Carrick.
And in doing so, admitted he wished he had had the opportunity to coach the England midfielder during his carrer.
“I give Michael my deepest congratulations for his testimonial,” Wenger told Arsenal.com. “I think he deserves it hugely.
"I would say personally I’m an admirer of his career, of his quality.
"One of my regrets is never having had him as a player because I think he was one of the greatest players in English football.
“I believe as well that he did not always get the reward and the tribute, the recognition he deserved.
"But I’m an admirer of Michael and I wish him all the best for the future.”
Carrick had been linked with a move to the Gunners a few times during his career; first back in 2004 while a West Ham player and even as recently as February in a shock bid to strengthen Arsenal's midfield.
Carrick signed a one-year extension on his current deal to keep him at Old Trafford until the summer of 2018.
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