Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has confirmed that Bruno Fernandes will remain the club's captain following clear-the-air talks at the Carrington training ground on Tuesday.
Carrick dropped Fernandes to the bench for Sunday's 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth after the Portuguese midfielder questioned the tactics used in a 4-1 Champions League loss to Como. The defeat left Carrick's future uncertain, but the 45-year-old will remain in charge for Saturday's trip to Chelsea.
Captaincy confirmed
"There is no decision to be made over whether Fernandes remains captain," Carrick said. "He is fully committed to this football club; he's fully committed to making things better. There are absolutely no issues with that. He's the one that's led the team so well for many a game and many a year, and he'll continue to do that."
Winless run
United have gone eight games without a win, their worst run since the 2015-16 season. The club held talks involving the Glazer family, minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox before confirming Carrick's immediate future. He is expected to remain in post for Tuesday's Champions League match against Roma and the Premier League encounter with Aston Villa on 8 November.
Carrick's stance
Carrick said he does not need assurances over his position: "I don't need any assurances from anyone. I totally get the position. I understand the job. I understand the responsibilities. I understand what comes with that. So, I really don't need any assurances from anyone in that regard." Asked if he was surprised to still be in a job, Carrick replied: "No. I'm here to do my job. I'm here to do the best for the team, and I'm desperate to make us better and improve things. So, I'm not surprised, no."
