Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag says captain Bruno Fernandes is a “inspiration to the team” following criticism of his demeanor in the 7-0 Premier League loss to Liverpool.
In the 81st minute at Anfield, a visibly frustrated Fernandes appeared to push the referee’s assistant.
Ten Hag stated that despite calls for him to relinquish the captaincy, Portugal midfielder Fernandes will remain captain.
“He’s having a fantastic season,” Ten Hag said.
“He has played a significant role in our success. Everyone makes mistakes, and we all learn from them. I must learn, and he must as well.
“He is well-educated. I’m delighted he’s our player and captain when Harry (Maguire) is unavailable.”
Former United captain Gary Neville said Fernandes’ behaviour was “embarrassing” and ex-Blackburn striker Chris Sutton said United had “people far better qualified to be captain”.
United’s defeat was their joint-heaviest in a competitive game, while Liverpool’s victory was their biggest against their rivals.
United conceded six goals in the second half, prompting Ten Hag to call his team “unprofessional” and “lost our heads” after the game.
When Marcus Rashford was substituted in the 85th minute, former England defender Neville questioned Fernandes as he motioned to the bench.
However, according to BBC Sport, Fernandes was seeking clarification on his position after Anthony Elanga replaced Rashford.
Fernandes has been described as a “good leader” by Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford.
“I enjoy playing with Bruno,” he explained. “I have nothing negative to say.
“There is no such thing as perfection. Sometimes you want to win so badly that you do things that are out of character. But I wholeheartedly support and stand by Bruno.
“As a team we have to support him because he’s a fantastic player. We wouldn’t be where we are if he wasn’t playing games for us.”
United are currently third in the Premier League, 14 points behind league leaders Arsenal, and c