Michael Carrick praises Phil Jones, Chris Smalling

Manchester United's Michael Carrick has hailed the improvements that Phil Jones and Chris Smalling have made this season.

In recent campaigns, it has often been said that the defensive duo had both been too inconsistent and liable to make mistakes.

However, speaking to reporters on England duty this afternoon, Carrick insisted that the pair have started to develop into "top centre-halves".

"Both have been terrific and have come on a lot this season. They're turning into really top centre-halves," said the 33-year-old.

Along with Carrick, both players are in the England squad for the upcoming internationals against Lithuania and Italy.