Manchester United have decided to stick with head coach Michael Carrick ahead of their Premier League clash with Chelsea this weekend

Manchester United's turbulent season has taken an unexpected turn after Michael Carrick was kept on as head coach. Carrick had been widely tipped for the sack following Sunday's home loss to Bournemouth.

With clear discontent in the dressing room, including controversial remarks from both Lisandro Martinez and Bruno Fernandes, Carrick appeared destined to become the latest Old Trafford managerial victim. However, following crucial discussions involving chief executive Omar Berrada, director of football Jason Wilcox and co-owners the Glazer family and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Carrick will remain in post for the time being.

Focus will now turn to his team selection for Saturday's fixture at Chelsea. Fernandes was axed from the Bournemouth match after criticising Carrick's tactics in the Champions League loss to Como and remained an unused substitute throughout.

As the saga continues during a troubled campaign, here's a summary of the latest United developments...

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Fans' support key

United reportedly opted to retain Carrick following the backing he received from supporters on Sunday. While fans at Old Trafford directed their fury towards the club's hierarchy and owners, Carrick was met with a positive response throughout.

He was applauded warmly as he departed the pitch ahead of the players, who were subjected to loud jeers. Although it wasn't the sole consideration in the decision, the support he garnered from fans was noted by those in charge, according to ESPN.

It has seemingly become apparent that the club's difficulties run far deeper than simply who occupies the dugout. Reservations about some of the leading contenders for the role - Antonio Conte, Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann - have also contributed to the decision to persist with Carrick, reports The Sun.

Rooney sends warning to players

Wayne Rooney has torn into United players, saying they 'haven't got a leg to stand on'. In a blistering outburst, the club's record goalscorer said he would like to go into the dressing room and stick a firework "up their a****."

Speaking on the Stick to United podcast, he raged: "What's not fair is the performances they're giving. I looked at the fans, you could see the pain and anger in their faces when them players are walking around the football pitch.

"You see Martinez when Rayan ran round him, they're not getting to the ball, it's so frustrating. I could score a goal, had ability or whatever, I f****** ran and put myself about as a team. These players are not doing that.

"I'd love to go in that dressing room, walk in that dressing room and say, 'What the f*** are use all doing? What type of performances do you think this is? Do you think you deserve to wear the shirt?' Put a f****** firework up their a**** because they're not doing anything.

"We're seeing players who are numb, look like they've got no emotion, look like they don't care. Some of them might care, some good lads who are getting dragged down. It's so frustrating to watch."