Manchester United interim head coach Michael Carrick insists the decision to drop Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea was no big deal.

Ronaldo was a key issue after the game at Stamford Bridge, with Carrick being held off the bench and sent off in the second half. Especially the criticism from many former football players who turned into game analysts.

Carrick saw what happened as an exaggerated reaction.

“That kind of decision turned out to be bigger than it should have been. Decisions are made for many reasons. I don’t see it as a big decision at all. It’s not an overreaction.”

“They are doing very well. the game is going well No problem,” Carrick replied to Ronaldo.

Ronaldo was dropped by Solskjaer for a draw against Everton earlier this season. Although he came on as a second-half substitute on that occasion, he still left the pitch with a face like thunder.

Even former United manager Alex Ferguson appeared to disagree with that decision when he was filmed on the day of the Everton game telling a friend “you should always start your best players”.

Carrick tried to preempt any more Ronaldo controversy as he added: “It is a decision to pick a team, don’t think it needs any more drama than that.

“Everyone is fine, all the boys who have come out of the team have been terrific. Cristiano included and ready to come on if needed.”

With United languishing 12 points behind Chelsea after two successive league defeats. Carrick needs his Ronaldo gamble to pay off.

Premier League: Shocking! Manchester United’s Michael Carrick drops Cristiano Ronaldo on bench against Chelsea in first game as incharge

The 36-year-old has scored 10 times since returning for his second spell at United in August.