Michael Carrick responds to Lisandro Martinez’s ‘unfathomable’ red card in Man United defeat

Michael Carrick denied he had been let down by Lisandro Martinez after Manchester United unravelled following the defender’s red card at Chelsea.

The centre-back was booked twice in two minutes and conceded a second-half penalty for his challenge on Wesley Fofana in the box.

After pulling down Morgan Rogers, Martinez led with his forearm and he made contact with Fofana’s throat as he attempted to defend a corner.

Martinez had criticised the United hierarchy in an explosive interview following defeat at Atletico Madrid earlier this month, later apologising for his comments.

But the Argentine’s sending off cost United as Cole Palmer doubled Chelsea’s lead from the spot following Rogers’ excellent opener.

Carrick did not look towards Martinez and appeared to ignore him as he made his way down the tunnel.

But the under-fire United manager replied “no” when asked by TNT Sports if he felt let down by Martinez.

“It has a major importance on the game,” Carrick also told Match of the Day. “A huge moment. I think that is pretty obvious really."

Former Chelsea forward Joe Cole described Martinez’s red card as “unfathomable” during his commentary on TNT Sports.

“He has let [Carrick] down,” Cole said. “He’s made a huge error. I don’t know the lad, but he’s let his team-mates down 100 per cent. It’s a crucial moment.”

Carrick had restored captain Bruno Fernandes to his team after criticism of his tactics following the Champions League defeat at Como.

It led to an improved performance from United in the first half and Carrick’s side could have taken the lead if Fernandes or Amad Diallo had taken chances.

Martinez is out of contract next summer and Cole added that it may suit both him and United to part ways in January.

“I think they might cut their losses,” Cole said. “He’s clearly a great player but if your head is not at the club then you’ve got to find a solution.”