Chelsea could be set to face a stronger Manchester United side this weekend, with Bruno Fernandes reportedly in line to return after being dropped for their defeat to Bournemouth.
United travel to Stamford Bridge on Saturday enduring a difficult spell. They've gone eight games without a victory in all competitions. Their 3-0 loss to the Cherries at Old Trafford on Sunday increased the pressure on Michael Carrick, whose future was discussed by senior club officials earlier this week.
The result also left questions hanging over the relationship between the head coach and his captain, after Fernandes publicly criticised United's tactics following their 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como mid-last week.
The Portuguese midfielder was left on the bench against Bournemouth and didn't come on. However, there is now an expectation that he will be brought back into the fold ahead of the meeting with Chelsea.
Bruno Fernandes set to return for Man United against Chelsea
According to The Athletic, Carrick is prepared to draw a line under the disagreement and make Fernandes available for Saturday's Premier League clash.
The update comes after United's hierarchy held discussions about the club's direction following another damaging result. Carrick has been given the opportunity to turn things around, with the trip to west London giving him one last chance.
Fernandes' omission against Bournemouth was described by Carrick as a 'footballing decision' rather than a disciplinary one. However, the timing of the decision, coming after the midfielder's public comments, inevitably raised questions about the situation behind the scenes.
The 32-year-old remains one of United's most influential players, and his potential return would give the visitors a source of creativity as they look to end their miserable run of results.
It remains to be seen whether Fernandes will go straight back into the starting XI or whether Carrick will start him on the bench.
Michael Carrick faces crucial Chelsea test
The focus will also be on Carrick, who has been retained for the Chelsea match despite growing scrutiny over United's performances.
The former midfielder previously enjoyed an encouraging spell in charge, guiding United to a third-place finish last season before being appointed permanent head coach. Recent results, however, have left his position under serious pressure.
Chelsea will be hoping to take advantage when the sides meet at Stamford Bridge. Xabi Alonso's team are also looking to respond after losing 2-0 to Spurs last weekend, making Saturday's fixture important for both managers.
The team news will become clearer closer to kick-off, but Fernandes' potential return is already one of the biggest talking points ahead of the weekend's meeting.
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