29 April 2023 , 11:02
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Many might have actually forgotten that former England goalkeeper Scott Carson was at Manchester City.
The 37-year-old has only made two appearances across nearly four years at the Etihad Stadium - his last Premier League outing coming nearly two seasons ago in a dramatic 4-3 win against Newcastle after City had already been confirmed champions. Despite his position in the pecking order with the club, it appears that he plays more of a vital role than supporters might think.
Following the departure of club captain Fernandinho last summer, City's players voted on who they wanted included in the leadership group. Ilkay Gundogan was voted as captain, with senior players such as Ruben Dias, Kyle Walker and Rodri all joining him.
And according to Mail Online, ex-West Brom and Derby keeper Carson made up the five-strong contingent. Speaking about the vote, German midfielder Gundogan said: "I was obviously happy and proud that my teammates selected me as captain, but I would’ve been just as happy if it had been Kevin [De Bruyne] because I think at this level, you divide and delegate a lot.
“Nevertheless, in the end we have five captains who try to lead the team in a lot of things, so I don’t see myself as the only one. I think the captaincy involves a team and I’m happy I have four guys by my side who support me. As someone that wasn’t born and raised here, it is a big honour to be the captain of this team and club, without a doubt.”
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Carson's inclusion will be a surprise to many given his limited role at the Etihad Stadium, but it might not be a shock to some. Man City boss Guardiola has regularly hailed the veteran stopper’s influence at the club in the past.
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Speaking in March last year, Guardiola said: “The best advice I could give to the young players is to stay around Scott Carson as much as possible in the locker room and on the pitch.
“It would be better than being with me. If they spend a lot of time [with him], listen to him and pay attention, that is the best advice and learning they can get about their future careers.
“Every second he is training and every minute you get on the pitch and in the changing room [with Carson], you value.”
Away from Carson’s solitary appearance in the Premier League for City, he was also afforded a cameo in the Champions League last season.
He came off the bench to replace Ederson in a last-16 clash with Sporting CP - appearing in the competition for the first time in nearly 17 years. In the process, he claimed the record of the longest time between consecutive appearances in the Champions League.