Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick believes that his game has improved significantly under the management of Louis van Gaal this season.

The 33-year-old has been one of United's impressive performers this campaign and has played a key role in the club's successful battle to regain a Champions League spot.

Carrick had to wait for his chance to impress the United boss at the start of the season because of injury, but the England international says that he is thankful for the faith that Van Gaal has shown in him since.

"Well, we had a bad start [to our relationship] really," Carrick told Sky Sports News. "On his first day, I went for an operation and was out for three months at the start of the season.

"Since then, he's been terrific for me; he's supported me and given me a lot of responsibility. As the season has gone on, I think I've shown that on the pitch; I've been happy with the way I've played.

"He's a lot more measured and a lot more calculated with the positions he wants me to take up on and off the ball, and also in terms of distribution. If it's five yards out, he'll shout to let you know. He adapts and it's good for me. I'm learning all the time."

Carrick has missed the final month of United's season with a calf problem.