What Bruno Fernandes did that pleased Michael Carrick

Manchester United caretaker boss Michael Carrick has revealed he was impressed with the way Bruno Fernandes reacted to being dropped against Villarreal.

The Portuguese playmaker came off the bench for the final 25 minutes and helped swing the game in United’s favour, setting up Jadon Sancho for Manchester United’s second goal in the 2-0 victory over Villarreal.

“Of course every player wants to play in the big games. I was in such a fortunate position where I had terrific players to choose from. That is the responsibility I have,” Carrick said.

“The only reaction that counts is what you saw Bruno do when he came on. He had such an influence on the game. Marcus [Rashford] as well. The pair looked fantastic when they came on. That is what counts.

“Everything else surrounding the game and the week, it is what happens on the pitch and how you carry yourself and how you perform and I thought Bruno was fantastic when he came on. It was exactly what we hoped for with the ideas we had for the game. I was delighted with that.”