Michael Carrick denies Man United dressing-room divide

Michael Carrick, Manchester United manager, dismissed talk of a split dressing room and backed himself to turn things around at Old Trafford. He said so ahead of Sunday’s clash with Bournemouth, after a 4-1 defeat at Como extended United’s winless run to seven matches.

Carrick addressed recent tension spilling beyond the pitch, with captain Bruno Fernandes and Lisandro Martínez publicly airing frustrations over the last fortnight. Pressed on whether the dressing room feels divided, he said: "It's not divided. We just need to get back to doing what we do best. And we will." He also kicked off by admitting "we've lost our way" and urging the squad to "respect the club".

On Fernandes questioning staff tactics following the heavy Champions League loss at Como, Carrick avoided confirming any punishment over the captaincy. "The most important thing for me is the team and the dynamics in the squad," he said, adding that whatever the situation, he will always do what is best for the football club.

According to Sky Sports, Carrick said he has spoken with the club’s hierarchy, which he understands is increasingly concerned about the team’s form. He also repeated his own sense of responsibility, saying: "I will hold that umbrella for me to get wet and everyone else to stay dry."