By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has admitted manager Michael Carrick was justified in dropping him last month after the midfielder publicly criticized the team's tactics.
Bench role after critical interview
Fernandes was left as an unused substitute for United's 3-0 loss to Bournemouth following a 4-1 Champions League defeat by Como, after which he blamed Carrick for a lack of pressing. The Portuguese international had questioned the manager's approach in a post-match interview.
Comeback win over Roma
United recovered from 2-0 down to beat Roma 3-2 on Tuesday, securing their first victory in 10 matches. Fernandes scored the opening goal with a retaken penalty and helped inspire the turnaround.
Fernandes accepts decision
Speaking to TNT Sports after the Roma match, Fernandes said the manager's decision to bench him was fair because he was not performing. He acknowledged that while many viewed it as punishment for his comments, he accepted it and maintained his belief in the manager and the squad.
Talks and return
Fernandes and Carrick held talks before the midfielder was restored to the starting lineup for Saturday's match against Chelsea. Fernandes dismissed media speculation about a rift, saying they had not cleared the air as reported.
Pressure on Carrick
Carrick has been under scrutiny with United collecting only seven points in the Premier League this season and losing their previous three matches in all competitions. Fernandes insisted the win was needed for the club and players, not to save the manager's job.
