Michael Carrick insists that he isn’t surprised to still be Manchester United’s head coach despite intense speculation over his future at Old Trafford - and confirmed that Bruno Fernandes will remain as club captain after being dropped for the clash with Bournemouth.

United this week decided to give Carrick more time to turn the club’s wretched season around despite overseeing the club’s worst start in 40 years.

The 45-year-old admitted that he didn’t know what to expect after Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford, but insists that he is well aware of his responsibility.

Carrick held clear-the-air talks with Bruno Fernandes at Carrington this week, with the Portugal star - who was axed after criticising the manager's tactics following the 4-1 defeat by Como - expected to lead the team at Chelsea on Saturday.

Asked if he is surprised to still be in a job, Carrick said: ‘No, I am here to do my job and my best for the team and I’m desperate to make us better. The boys are hungry. We’re hurting cos we haven’t won enough games. There’s an intensity and edge to do better. No, I’m not surprised.

‘I don’t need any assurances from anyone. I understand the job and responsibility and what comes with that.’

Carrick nodded when asked if Fernandes will stay as captain after being dropped against Bournemouth. 

‘There’s no decision to be made on that,’ he added. ‘Bruno is fully committed to the football club, there’s no issues with that. We look ahead to the game on Saturday.

‘Listen, we're clear with the situation of the team, and as a football club at the moment. As I've just said, he's an important player for this group. He has been and he will be. Between us, we've got to make a difference and we've got to push things in a good direction. 

'He's fully committed to this football club, he's fully committed to making things better. It doesn't change for me. He's the one that's kind of led the team so well for many a game and many a year, and he'll continue to do that.’