Carrick defiant and Alonso has ‘big sympathy’ for under-pressure Man Utd boss

Manchester United boss Michael Carrick insists he does not need any assurances over his future ahead of Saturday’s trip to Chelsea.

Carrick is under pressure after United’s 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth last weekend, but the club have kept faith with him for the game at Stamford Bridge (12.30pm).

Chelsea, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back from back-to-back defeats by Tottenham and Liverpool.

“I don’t need assurances from anyone,” Carrick said. “I totally get the position, I get the job, the responsibility, I get what comes with that.”

Asked whether he was surprised to still be in charge, he replied: “No. I’m here to do my job.”

Carrick confirmed Bruno Fernandes, who was left on the bench against Bournemouth, remains captain, and said Kobbie Mainoo is back in training.

Blues boss Xabi Alonso said: “I have great respect. I have big sympathy for Michael as a manager. Recently we played against each other in a legends game so we chatted a little bit.”