After all the build-up and for a game of such importance, Thursday's Manchester derby didn't produce a goal and ultimately failed to live up to expectations.

Manchester City had 69% possession and racked up 19 shots (six on target) to Manchester United's three, but the visitors managed to hold on to a point and ensure that a top four finish remains in their own hands.

In the end, given that City created many more chances and Marouane Fellaini got sent off six minutes from time, most would agree that the 0-0 result turned out to be better for Jose Mourinho's men.

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One of the biggest stories which dominated the headlines heading into the game was Pep Guardiola's praise of Michael Carrick, claiming that he's "one of the best holding midfielders I've ever seen in my life".

The City manager even suggested that the midfield maestro is the only current United player who would have got into his team at Barcelona - where he led them to an incredible 14 trophies in four years from 2008 to 2012.

Carrick and Guardiola show respect

Following the final whistle after yesterday's draw, Guardiola and Carrick ran into each other out on the pitch, where there was a clear show of great respect between the two.

As you can see in the video below, the pair shared a warm embrace as they exchanged words, patting each other on the back, whispering, smiling and laughing throughout:

At the end of his post-match interview with Sky Sports, which you can see in full further down the page, United's captain on the day was asked about his conversation with Pep.

To which he replied: "(He said) nothing major, just 'congratulations and well played'. He's obviously a terrific manager and he's had success wherever he's been, and I've got a lot of respect for him."

The classy Englishman is out of contract at Man United this summer and will celebrate his glittering 11-year career at the club in June, having been granted his own testimonial match.

The 35-year-old has played over 450 games for the Red Devils since joining from Tottenham in 2006, scoring 24 goals and winning five Premier League titles, two League Cups, the FA Cup, the Champions League, six Community Shields and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Given his legendary status at Old Trafford, it's of course unlikely that Guardiola could lure Carrick to Man City in the summer, but it was very endearing to see their interaction.

Do YOU agree with Guardiola? How good do YOU think Carrick has been for Man Utd over the years? Leave YOUR opinion in the comments box below!