'Bruno's as good as ever' - Carrick backs Man Utd captain
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has publicly defended captain Bruno Fernandes, dismissing rumors of internal conflict. Carrick emphasized Fernandes' commitment to the club following a recent victory against Roma.
Why it matters
The manager's public support for his captain is a critical attempt to stabilize the team's morale and performance during a period of poor results and managerial uncertainty.
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick says captain Bruno Fernandes' commitment to the club is "undoubted" and the midfielder is "as good as ever".
Fernandes was left on the bench for October's home defeat by Bournemouth after criticising Carrick and his coaching staff in the wake of the 4-1 Champions League hammering in Como.
Restored to the team for the Premier League defeat by Chelsea a week later, Fernandes scored a retaken penalty to spark his side's stunning second-half comeback against Roma on Tuesday.
Portugal international Fernandes said afterwards there had been "a lot of lies" reported about his relationship with Carrick.
The 32-year-old rejected the notion there had been "clear-the-air talks" between the pair - something which had been confirmed by club sources.
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