Michael Carrick's position as Manchester United manager looks increasingly fragile after Bournemouth comfortably beat the side at Old Trafford. The defeat was United's third loss in four matches and left Carrick in urgent need of a victory following a 4-1 away loss to Como in the Champions League earlier in the week.
Carrick drops Fernandes after criticism
In his pre-match press conference, Carrick attempted to rally his players with a five-minute monologue referencing Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Alex Ferguson and Ryan Giggs. He also responded to Bruno Fernandes' criticism of his tactics by dropping the United captain and leaving him on the bench against Bournemouth.
The decision was a significant statement from the beleaguered manager, who chose to bring on Joshua Zirkzee instead of Fernandes. The change did not produce the desired effect, as Bournemouth added a third goal shortly afterwards, building on first-half strikes from Rayan and Marcus Tavernier.
United's winless run continues
The result marked United's eighth consecutive match without a victory and leaves the club closer to the relegation zone than the top four. Following the match, the Manchester Evening News is providing all the latest updates and news around Carrick and his future at the club.
