Carrick backs Fernandes as captain, needs no guarantees over his United future

Michael Carrick has backed Bruno Fernandes to continue as Manchester United captain, insisting the midfielder remains fully committed to the club despite their recent falling out. The United manager also said he needs no reassurance over his own future as he prepares his squad for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea in the Premier League.

Carrick left Fernandes on the bench for Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth after the Portugal international publicly questioned United’s tactics following last week’s 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como. The pair have since held on-air talks and Carrick is keen to move on from the incident.

“It was a decision for the game. That’s it,” Carrick said in his press conference on Thursday.

“Bruno is fully committed to this football club. I have no problems with that, we’re moving on. We’re looking forward to the game.”

CARRICK STANDS WITH FERNANDES AS CAPTAIN

Harry Maguire was handed the captain’s armband against Bournemouth in Fernandes’ absence, prompting questions over whether the Portuguese midfielder will retain the role. However, Carrick has made it clear that there is no uncertainty over his captaincy.

“There is no need to decide that,” he said.

Asked if Fernandes’ emotional nature could be a problem for the captain, Carrick defended the 32-year-old, pointing to his commitment to the club and desire to improve the squad.

“He’s the captain of our football club,” Carrick said. “There are different personalities, different qualities, different ways of leading. It all depends on what happens on the football field and whether you win in the end or not.

“He cares deeply about this football club and team and is desperate to see it succeed. We will do it together.”

The support comes after a difficult week for Fernandes, whose public criticism of United’s tactics was followed by his omission from the starting line-up against Bournemouth. Carrick’s comments suggest the disagreement will not affect the midfielder’s leadership role as United look to get their season back on track.

CARRICK: I DON’T NEED SURE ABOUT MY FUTURE

Questions have also been raised about Carrick’s own position following United’s poor results. Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox held talks at the club’s Carrington training ground this week, but Carrick remains in charge ahead of trip to Chelsea.

The former United midfielder said he understands the demands of the job and does not need assurances from the club’s hierarchy about his future.

“I don’t need reassurance from anybody,” Carrick said.

“I’m absolutely going to get the position, I’m going to get the job, I’m going to get the responsibility, I’m going to get what comes with it. I really don’t need any reassurance from anybody on that.”

Carrick insisted his focus was firmly on the squad’s preparation for Chelsea rather than speculation surrounding his position. He also made it clear that he cares more about the opinions of supporters than criticism elsewhere.

“I’m not looking for it. It’s not helping. I’ve said it before, I care about what the fans think. I care about how they feel in the stadium and how they travel to the games. I care about what we give them and what they see,” he said.

“I don’t really see anything else. I know this job and I know what we need to be better. I don’t need anybody to tell me that.”

Asked if he was surprised to still be in the job, Carrick said he remained focused on his duties.

“No. I’m here to do my job. I’m here to do the best for the team. I’m desperate to improve and improve things. I’m not surprised, no,” he said.

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