Gill Defends Carrick Fee

Happy Buyer
By Chris O'Brien
August 10 2006

Manchester United chief executive David Gill has defended the decision to spend £18.6million on Michael Carrick's services. The 49-year-old, current vice-chairman of the G14, has also revealed the payment structure that is attached to such a substantial fee.

David Gill has defended the heavily-criticised £18.6million transfer fee that the club have splashed out on Michael Carrick.

The United chief executive has revealed that the Red Devils have paid Tottenham Hotspur an initial fee of £14million for the player, and that this fee will rise by a further £4.6million depending on the success of the player and club over the next few seasons.

"The initial figure is £14m and that is appropriate." confirmed Gill.

"There is a premium on English players but we are very comfortable with the fee, we have got a great player at a great price."