Former Arsenal forward Paul Merson believes Bruno Fernandes is key to Michael Carrick turning around Manchester United’s fortunes.
The pundit insists Fernandes remains United’s best player despite the controversy surrounding his recent comments criticising the club’s managerial staff.
And while Carrick’s side showed fight in Tuesday’s 3-2 comeback win over Roma in the Champions League, Merson also warned against talk of a momentum shift at Old Trafford.
Merson backs Fernandes
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson said of the Red Devils’ polarising captain: “I think Bruno Fernandes has to play for Manchester United.
“He’s their best player and when you’re going through a difficult period, you need your best players on the pitch.
“I know he was left out against Roma, but I don’t think you can keep leaving him out. Even if he’s not playing particularly well, he still gets into Manchester United’s team.
“They haven’t got a player better than him. You couldn’t keep chopping your nose off to spite your face. You need him on side.
“Brian Clough always used to say that when times are hard, go back to putting your best team on the pitch. That’s what United need to do. Bruno has to be in it.
“As long as he plays well, they will always have a chance of winning.”
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Villa test awaits
Merson was nevertheless cautious when discussing United’s immediate fortunes, stating: “I don’t see the Roma result as a turnaround for Manchester United.
“I think it’s a start but if I’m being honest, I don’t see them getting anything from Aston Villa [in the Premier League] on Sunday.
“Villa weren’t great against Barcelona [3-0 loss in the Champions League], but they’re playing a much better standard of football at the moment.
“Roma covered over the cracks, in my opinion. It’s not like they absolutely destroyed Roma. They got back into it by bad luck.
“I’m more interested in what happens this weekend from Manchester United.”
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