By Islam El-Sakka
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has ruled out stripping Bruno Fernandes of the captaincy, insisting there is "no decision to be made" despite dropping the Portuguese midfielder for the recent defeat to Bournemouth.
Carrick confirms captaincy decision
Carrick and Fernandes held talks at the Carrington training ground this week after the captain was omitted from the starting lineup and unused as substitutes were preferred. Fernandes is expected to return for Saturday's Premier League trip to Chelsea.
Leadership vacuum in squad
The decision highlights a dearth of leadership alternatives. Harry Maguire, who wore the armband against Bournemouth, was demoted by Erik ten Hag after being appointed by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Lisandro Martinez, who captained the side under Ruben Amorim, recently criticised sporting director Jason Wilcox in a post-match interview.
Limited options among senior players
Other members of a six-man leadership group assembled by Amorim include third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton, who last played a Premier League game in 2020, and Diogo Dalot, whose form has been undistinguished. Summer signing Noussair Mazraoui has been kept out of the team by Dalot.
Tielemans and long-serving players not viable
Youri Tielemans, who captains Belgium, led the side in a Carabao Cup loss to Brighton but was substituted at half-time against Bournemouth. His lack of mobility makes it difficult for him to lead by example. Long-serving players Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford have also been sidelined recently.
Fernandes key to Carrick's future
Carrick acknowledged Fernandes' commitment, calling him the team's likeliest match-winner in upcoming games against Chelsea, Roma and Aston Villa. The manager's own job prospects may depend on Fernandes' performances.
Partnership tested but essential
Despite Fernandes' emotional style contrasting with Carrick's calm demeanour, their partnership previously yielded a record Premier League assist tally. Carrick now hopes Fernandes can help reverse United's eight-game winless run.
