The United midfielder is rarely lauded in the same manner as so many of his compatriots.
Carrick's international career still only extends to 26 caps, a surprisingly low figure for a rare breed of English midfielder who treats possession so carefully.
The 31-year-old's understated brilliance was encapsulated by the magnificent pass that picked out Javier Hernandez for United's opener against Chelsea on Sunday.
"Michael is the most under-rated and under-valued player in the league," said Ferdinand. "No-one else could play a pass like he did for Javier's goal. It has to be the ball of the season. But I am sure no-one will talk about it.
"It will be swept under the carpet and all the talk will be about other players who maybe do a little bit more explosive things than Michael does.
"He is laid back and plays at his own pace, so he always goes un-noticed. But he is valued highly by each member of our squad, don't worry about that."
Ferdinand believes Carrick has stepped up his game this season and is now one of Sir Alex Ferguson's key men.
"He has stepped up," added Ferdinand. "With Scholesy not playing as many games the responsibility has gone to Michael and he has handled it superbly.
"You just wish players like that didn't have to go through their careers searching for accolades.
"You would like to think people would give them out. That hasn't been the case with Michael, which is unfortunate."
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