Michael Carrick has opened up on his decision to bench Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko for Manchester United's Premier League clash with Manchester City at Old Trafford today.
Both players started last Sunday's 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton, with Sesko scoring in that game.
Yet neither has made the starting XI this afternoon, with Carrick going with Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu as his attack instead.
Carrick was asked about his decision as he prepares to take charge of the team for the first time.
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And the United interim boss has insisted that the decision is 'nothing personal', with the ex-midfielder suggesting it's merely a case of rotation.
"We have a good squad. There will always be players disappointed not to start, but finishing the game can be even more important," he said.
"They have huge talent and it's nothing personal."
Michael Carrick has opened up on his decision to bench Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko for Manchester United's Premier League clash with Manchester City at Old Trafford today
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United are yet to win in 2026.
As well as last weekend's loss to Brighton, they've also failed to beat Leeds and Burnley.
Carrick is hopeful that the fallen giants can go on a run and dent City's hopes of title glory, with Pep Guardiola's men six points behind Arsenal at the top of the table.
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Five facts about the Premier League | PA/GETTY/REUTERS/GBNEWS"Managing the game through how we think it will flow," he said when asked about his game plan.
"We have a really strong group of players on the bench to finish the game strong for us.
"There are certain things we need to be aware of and deal with. It's not about stopping, it's about being progressive and thinking about our threats."
Carrick isn't expected to be United's next permanent boss, regardless of how he fares in the dugout.
And Gary Neville, speaking on Sky Sports, believes his old team need a big name in order to bring the glory days back to Old Trafford.
"It is not Michael Carrick per se, I think Manchester United should appoint the best possible manager that they can that is available," he said.
Michael Carrick is taking charge of Manchester United for the first time since his return
| PA"In the summer there is going to Carlo Ancelotti, Thomas Tuchel, Julian Naglesmann, among many other world class managers.
"Some of those managers have won Champions Leagues and Premier League titles. They have great experience
"Man Utd have had Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Erik ten Hag, Ruben Amorim, who are young managers in their journey. It feels like now is time to settle on a more experienced manager, who has been around the block.
"There are some signs that are better but it has been a massive struggle for INEOS to get the football side right and the decision-making right.
"The next appointment is vital.
"It is not time for risk. Keeping a young manager at this club who has not had experience has not proven to be successful."