The defender spoke out in support of his captain, to say that he was pleased Carrick would remain with the squad, albeit in a coaching role.
Smalling said: ''He [Carrick] is having an impact. With Michael I think it doesn't feel too weird that he's going into coaching, because he is such a figurehead of the team. I mean, our team is getting younger and younger, but Michael is the standout leader of our team.''
''So, to see him stay with us and go into a coaching role I think feels quite nice for all of us players, that there's a familiar face going into the coaching and someone we already looked up to massively anyway.''
For his part, Carrick is the final remaining member of the United side that won the Champions League ten years ago.
The midfielder added: ''I didn't think about it like that. I think time just flies so quickly. I think you just need to enjoy every moment and I'll keep enjoying every game because it's always a privilege to get another appearance.''
Carrick is already making a mark in the coaching world, having been praised for his half-time words that spurred United onto a 3-2 win over Manchester City.