Manchester United hosts Bournemouth in a vital match at Old Trafford on Sunday, Oct. 25, but its captain Bruno Fernandes will begin the match on the bench.

United has gone seven games without a win, most recently losing 4-1 to Como on Wednesday in the Champions League.

After that match, Fernandes appeared to question the tactics of under-fire coach Michael Carrick, specifically his decision to not press high.

When Sunday's lineup was revealed, Fernandes was only on the bench. Asked on Sky Sports if the Portugal star was dropped for football reasons or something else, Carrick replied simply: "Pure football."

Carrick declined to rule out dropping Fernandes or removing the armband when asked about the playmaker at his pre-game press conference on Friday.

"I'll always do what's best for the football club," said the United head coach.

Manchester United starting lineup vs. Bournemouth

This article will be updated.

Premier League scores, standings

See scores and the full table here.

Follow the English Premier League with USA TODAY

The soccer never rests, and USA TODAY is keeping tabs on the sport all year long. Follow the news on our soccer hub or join our WhatsApp channel to get the latest updates right in your texts.