Manchester United's dramatic comeback from two goals down to defeat Roma in the Champions League could be the catalyst for a season turnaround, according to midfielder Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese playmaker also hit out at what he described as "lies" regarding his relationship with under-pressure manager Michael Carrick.
United looked headed for another disappointing result after a woeful first half at Old Trafford left them trailing 2-0 and staring at a ninth consecutive match without a win. However, Fernandes sparked the revival by converting a penalty at the second attempt after his initial effort was saved, with Roma defender Gianluca Mancini having encroached into the box. Matheus Cunha then struck twice in the final ten minutes to complete a remarkable comeback and breathe life into United's Champions League campaign, which had suffered setbacks against Atletico Madrid and Como.
Fans' frustration acknowledged
Speaking to Amazon Prime after the match, Fernandes acknowledged the frustration among supporters. "Fans want to win games. They've been used to seeing this club winning trophies, winning games every week and for them it's been so frustrating to see the club in this situation," he said. "But I just want to make everyone aware that we are all frustrated with the situation at the moment. We all want to get out of this and hopefully this win today gives the start of something good for us."
The midfielder's comments come after a turbulent period that saw him question Carrick's tactics following a 4-1 league defeat to Como, which led to him being dropped for the 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth. Fernandes, last season's Premier League Player of the Year, was restored to the starting line-up for Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Chelsea, a result that leaves United just above the relegation zone on goal difference.
Fernandes addresses speculation
Fernandes took the opportunity to address the speculation surrounding his relationship with Carrick. "It's been tough, there's been a lot of speculation in the media, a lot of lies around many things that have happened in this club between me and the manager," he added. "The manager took a decision of making myself be on the bench because I wasn't performing. That's fair. Everyone felt that that was a punishment for the words that I had and, if it was, it was right, the manager is the one that makes the decisions, I have to accept them. I have to go forward with that, it doesn't change the belief I have on the manager and on the staff and every player that is in this club."
When asked whether the Roma fightback could serve as a turning point for United's season, Fernandes was unequivocal: "It should be."
The comeback victory provides a much-needed morale boost for United, who have endured a difficult start to the season. With the club languishing near the bottom of the Premier League table and their Champions League hopes hanging by a thread, the win over Roma offers a glimmer of hope. Fernandes and his teammates will be desperate to build on this result as they aim to climb the standings and restore pride at Old Trafford.
