Michael Carrick backs Bruno Fernandes and insists attitude is ‘as good as ever’

Michael Carrick said Bruno Fernandes’ attitude is “as good as ever” and he has no doubts about his commitment again after their falling-out.

The United manager dropped his captain after Fernandes criticised his tactics during the 4-1 defeat to Como and chose not to bring him on in the 3-0 loss to Bournemouth.

But Carrick and Fernandes held talks last week and the Portuguese returned to the team at Chelsea on Saturday before playing his part in their comeback win over Roma, scoring their first goal with a twice-taken penalty and providing the assist for Matheus Cunha’s equaliser.

“I think by his actions, the way he’s played and how he dealt with even retaking the penalty and frame of mind he was in for that, I think that tells everything,” said Carrick. “Yeah, Bruno’s as good as ever.”

The 45-year-old has not revealed if Fernandes apologised to him, adding: “What’s actually said in that discussion, you’ll be pleased to know I’ll keep that to myself.

“But I think it’s pretty clear we’ve moved in a good direction, and Bruno’s commitment is undoubted for me of what he brings to this team and this club, and I think he showed that again this week.”

Carrick has challenged Cunha to replicate his catalytic display against Roma, when he won a penalty and scored two goals, to double his tally for the season.

“He has to repeat that performance,” the United manager said. “He was fantastic and that’s close to his best, and that’s the level where we want to see.”

Carrick has said before that he has not sought reassurances about his position during United’s slump and they have only won one of their last 10 games in all competitions.

He has not been told he will remain in charge next week. “No, no,” he replied, adding that his plans were unchanged. “Just carry on as absolute normal.”