Carrick and Fernandes Clear-the-Air Before Chelsea

Manchester United's captain promised to start after being benched for a 3-0 loss. He and interim coach Michael Carrick met privately on Tuesday at Carrington to clear the air. The talk followed Fernandes' criticism of Carrick's tactics after the 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como. United were 16th, just one point above relegation, after a 3-0 Bournemouth loss that left Fernandes on the bench. Sources disagree on who called the meeting, but both say Fernandes assured Carrick he's fully committed. Director of football Jason Wilcox confirmed Carrick will stay in charge for Saturday's 12:30 GMT clash at Chelsea. United have won only two of their last twelve games and were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Brighton. Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo returned to training on Wednesday after a fortnight out injured. United host Roma in three days, then Aston Villa before a two-week international break. If results don't improve, Wilcox's shortlist includes Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann.