Carrick: This pre-season has 'added spice'

Michael Carrick is predicting a pre-season friendly with some "added spice" when Manchester United and City meet in China later this month.

The local rivals will play each other in the International Champions Cup at Beijing National Stadium on 25 July as part of Tour 2016, presented by Aon. Jose Mourinho's men will also play Borussia Dortmund in China, in Shanghai three days before the derby.

Carrick, who recently committed his future to the Reds for another year, is relishing the clash with City and says United's opposition in Beijing will bring an extra edge to the preparation match.

"I’m sure there will be a little bit of added spice for a pre-season friendly and it’ll be great for the fans out there to witness," the midfielder told ManUtd.com.

"The support we get out there is incredible so the atmosphere will go up a notch I’m sure. 

"Pre-season is an important time for the team and for the players, making sure that you get to that level that you need to be at for the start of the season."

While the derby meeting in Beijing will draw much of the focus from fans, Carrick recognises the Reds will also face a strong test in the opening tour match against Dortmund.

"They’re a terrific team who did well in last season's Bundesliga and I’m sure it’ll be a good game for us," he added. "Playing against them will allow us, to a certain extent, judge where we’re at.

"It’s difficult to predict exactly what the games will be like because a lot will depend on which players are on display. But we know the games will be tough as we’re talking about two great teams here. I’m sure they will be great games to watch."