Ferguson said: “Michael has fitted in well. He is an attacking midfield player who can create opportunities for us.
“He is a fantastic passer of the ball and will excel at that in Europe. It’s a competition where you don’t want to give the ball away.
“Good passing is vital when you’re playing away from home. He can create counter-attacking chances for us – like the pass for Rooney’s first goal against Bolton.
“His vision and touch on the ball are absolutely superb. He’s got that ability to open up teams from deeper positions.
“Carrick’s performances have been good but Paul Scholes has been absolutely superb.
“Michael has had a cameo role in terms of media attention. All the focus has been on Scholes.
“Maybe that’s been good for Michael. It has enabled him to settle at the club, take his time and he’s producing some good football for us now.”
Fergie added: “Whatever side we field at the moment is doing well. The players are adapting to any situation we give them.
“Quite a few have missed games – Neville, Giggs, Heinze, Ronaldo and Saha – so that must give us encouragement in terms of the whole group, not just 11 players.”
