Michael Carrick has hit back at Bruno Fernandes after the Manchester United captain criticised his tactics in the wake of the 4-1 Champions League defeat by Como. Fernandes pointed the finger at Carrick and his staff after the loss, which has increased the pressure on the under-fire head coach. The Red Devils have now extended their winless run to seven games across all competitions.
Fernandes criticises pressing and intensity
Fernandes, who was substituted in the second half with United 3-0 down, criticised his side's lack of pressing and intensity off the ball. Carrick was asked about the Portuguese international's comments when he faced the media after the match.
"We actually half pressed man-to-man in the second half and conceded from that," the former midfielder responded. "If you don't run, don't run forward and you don't run back you are not going to win."
Substitution and defeat at Como
When Fernandes was substituted, he was not acknowledged by his manager on a difficult day for United. Nico Paz starred at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium, scoring two goals, while Joshua Zirkzee netted a late consolation for the visitors, who were deservedly beaten heavily despite missing nine first-team players through injury. Fernandes was replaced in favour of the Dutchman, who made a positive impact off the bench.
Upcoming Premier League clash
United return to Premier League action this weekend when they take on Bournemouth at Old Trafford. The Red Devils sit 13th in the English top flight, and they have not won in the league since their 5-2 victory over Ipswich back at the end of August.
