Carrick explains keeping Fernandes on despite limp after Sabah win

Michael Carrick has explained his handling of captain Bruno Fernandes against Sabah, after the Portuguese was seen limping post-match.

According to Goal.com, United made several changes during the Champions League win at Old Trafford, yet Fernandes played the full match and scored in the 4-0 victory. He has featured in every minute of United’s opening four fixtures and has four goals.

Carrick said the flow of the game and the five-substitute limit meant he kept Fernandes on out of necessity. He stressed he is mindful of the workload and that the player will need a breather over a long season.

He described it as one of those nights when choices were tight, so Fernandes stayed on until the final whistle.

Luke Shaw missed the Sabah game, and Carrick was cautious on his status for Sunday’s derby with Man City. He said Shaw had been protected because he was not quite 100 per cent and will be assessed over the next couple of days.

Any absence would complicate United’s defensive planning as Carrick balances stability with player fitness heading into the showdown.

Source: Goal.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”