Kasper Schmeichel has urged Manchester United fans to back their team, but warned that protests against the Glazer family's ownership are hurting the players' performances. The former Leicester City and Celtic goalkeeper, son of United legend Peter Schmeichel, said he understands the demonstrations but called for unity from the Old Trafford faithful.
Fans praised for staying despite frustration
Speaking on BBC 5Live, Schmeichel acknowledged the fans' right to protest but stressed the need for positivity, particularly with upcoming matches against Aston Villa and Liverpool. He said: "I'd still be very tentative, particularly considering your next two games are Aston Villa and Liverpool. That's a tough ask even if you're on a good run. If you want to force a change, you have to a little bit get on the bandwagon to promote the positivity."
He praised supporters for staying at the ground during Tuesday's Europa League match against AS Roma, saying: "I like that the fans, they stayed. They could have gone at half time and been frustrated and missed the traffic, but I like the fact that they stayed. And once the first goal went in, that was enough to create the atmosphere."
Comeback win masks deeper tensions
United came from behind to beat AS Roma 3-2, overturning a two-goal deficit thanks to a Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha-inspired second-half comeback. Michael Carrick's side were jeered off at half-time before the turnaround, with Cunha scoring twice.
Tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch before and during the match, while derogatory chants aimed at director of football Jason Wilcox and the club's ownership rang out from the stands. Chief executive Omar Berrada and Wilcox have become the latest targets for criticism, with supporters remaining incensed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family's tenure.
Carrick under pressure after mixed run
The heat is on Carrick following losses to Como, Bournemouth and Chelsea, despite retaining his position in the dugout. Schmeichel added: "When things go wrong, let's not get negative straight away. Put things into context sometimes. For example, you are coming up against a very good Aston Villa side. So things can go wrong in games, but it's about the reaction. Then, most of all, it's the players' responsibility to give the fans something. Give them something to cheer about and they will respond."
Carrick remained guarded when asked about the protests in October, saying: "I don't think that's for me to say. I've got no problem with how it is for me sitting here and talking to you guys." United supporters continue to demand accountability from Wilcox and Berrada, with the director of football's only media appearance coming via the club's own channels after a three-match unbeaten run.
