Bruno Fernandes limps after Man Utd win as Manchester derby looms
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was seen limping as he left Old Trafford after completing the full 90 minutes in the 4-0 Champions League win over Sabah FK.
What we know
- Fernandes, 32, has played every minute of United’s first four matches this season and has scored four times.
- He was on target against Sabah and remained on the field until the final whistle despite Carrick having planned changes.
- Carrick said the match situation forced his hand, with only five substitutions available and tactical decisions required during the second half.
- The United manager admitted Fernandes has carried a heavy workload and said the squad must increasingly cope without relying on him so heavily.
- Luke Shaw missed the Sabah match after not reaching full fitness. United chose not to take a risk with the England defender.
- Marcus Rashford was left out as part of a fitness-management plan, while Benjamin Sesko was given minutes to build sharpness.
United to assess Fernandes and Shaw before City derby
Carrick said Fernandes’ extended involvement against Sabah was a one-off caused by the demands of the game, but indicated the midfielder will need rest during a packed campaign.
United will now monitor Fernandes after his post-match limp ahead of Sunday’s derby against Manchester City. Shaw will also be checked over the next few days before a decision is made on his availability.
Rashford is expected to benefit from his midweek rest as Carrick looks to spread minutes across his squad. The manager said United have options, with Sesko among the players being brought up to speed.
