Michael Carrick shares Bruno Fernandes injury update ahead of Sunderland clash against Manchester United
Manchester United boss Michael Carrick explains late substitution after Bruno Fernandes concern in Liverpool win
Michael Carrick has eased concerns over Bruno Fernandes after the Manchester United midfielder was substituted late on during the 3-2 win over Liverpool.
Fernandes appeared to be in some discomfort after a challenge towards the end of the first half at Old Trafford, but he continued after the break and remained on the pitch until stoppage time as United secured a result that confirmed their return to the Champions League. His withdrawal prompted some concern given the timing of Sunderland’s Premier League clash with United at the Stadium of Light next weekend, but Carrick insisted there was no injury issue behind the decision.
Fernandes has been a key figure under Carrick and has rarely been substituted since the former Middlesbrough boss took charge. His late withdrawal against Liverpool came only after United had already made changes in attacking areas, with Leny Yoro introduced to help see out the game. The Portugal international was again influential against Liverpool, even though he did not register a goal or assist. He came close to adding to his tally when Freddie Woodman diverted his header before Benjamin Sesko went close.
“To be honest, it was just a minute or so to go and [we wanted] to get Leny on the pitch,” Carrick said after the game at Old Trafford against the reigning Premier League champions. “Obviously Joshua came on, Paddy came on, and Amad came on as well, and there was nothing behind that apart from that.”
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Sunderland are hoping to have more attacking options available after recent injury issues. Règis Le Bris recently confirmed Bertrand Traoré and Nilson Angulo are close to returning, though Dan Ballard is expected to miss out through suspension after his red card at Wolves. Joecelin Ta Bi returned to the bench at Molineux and is expected to be available once again this weekend.
“They have the profile expected for this position, and they have the ability to change the game,” Le Bris said regarding his returning wingers ahead of the Wolves game. “I hope they will help, but they haven’t played for a long period. They have the ability to threaten one-v-one, go in behind and cross the ball."
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