Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves thinks that veteran Michael Carrick can replicate Andrea Pirlo's role next to Paul Pogba in United's midfield.

Pogba and Pirlo formed a stellar partnership during their days together at Juventus and Hargreaves thinks that Carrick is the closest player to the Italian in United ranks.

The French midfielder gave his best performance of his second stint at United in Thursday night's 4-1 Europa League win over Fenerbahce while playing next to Carrick in central midfield.

"The player closest to Pirlo is Carrick that he had at Juventus when he was at his best," Hargreaves said on BT Sport.

"I think Mourinho is trying to find his best partner, and I think Carrick should play in this team.

"He's giving these players an auction. Martial needs another game coming back from injury so I think it's a very strong team and he's respecting the competition."