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Fernandes shoots down reports of rift with Solskjaer

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Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has denied rumblings of discontent with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, rejecting claims that he was critical of the manager's tactics after the 6-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

The Portuguese international, who was substituted at halftime during the club's humiliating loss earlier this month, said any suggestions of unhappiness were just attempts by outside forces to undermine the team.

"I think there has been a lot of speculation lately about this," the 26-year-old told SportTV, as translated by Adriana Garcia of ESPN.

"First, (the media) said there was a discussion with the teammates, and as that didn't sell, it was then with a teammate (Victor Lindelof), and as that didn't work either, it was with Solskjaer. I believe it's just a way of destabilizing the group a little bit."

Fernandes said he understood Solskjaer's "tactical" decision to replace him at halftime with United reduced to 10 players and added that he is fully behind the Norwegian bench boss despite the club's disappointing start to the season.

"I just have to be grateful to the coach because he was the one who wanted me, he was the one who believed in me, and the tactics he uses are perfect for me," he said.

"So, don't use me to make excuses, if someone wants to try to make trouble inside Manchester United, do not use my name or that of my colleagues or the coach. The atmosphere is good, obviously after a defeat we were sad, but we have to give an answer in the next game."

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