Michael Carrick plays down Bruno Fernandes injury fears before Sunderland v Manchester United | OneFootball

Michael Carrick has eased fears over Bruno Fernandes after the Manchester United midfielder was taken off late in the 3-2 win against Liverpool, calming worries ahead of Sunderland’s Premier League meeting with United at the Stadium of Light next weekend.

Fernandes showed discomfort following a first-half challenge at Old Trafford, continued after the interval and stayed on until stoppage time as United sealed a result that confirmed their return to the Champions League. According to Sunderland Echo, Carrick said the change was not related to an injury.

Fernandes has been a mainstay under Carrick and is rarely substituted. His withdrawal followed earlier attacking changes, with Leny Yoro introduced to help close out the game.

The Portugal international was influential despite not recording a goal or assist. Freddie Woodman diverted his header, before Benjamin Sesko went close soon after.

Sunderland are aiming to bolster their forward options after recent injuries. Règis Le Bris has indicated Bertrand Traoré and Nilson Angulo are close to returning, while Dan Ballard is set to miss out through suspension after his red card at Wolves. Joecelin Ta Bi, who was back on the bench at Molineux, is expected to be available again this weekend.

Source: Sunderland Echo