As is often the case in football, two truths can be possible at the same time. Bruno Fernandes has been one of Erik ten Hag's standout players this season and his vice-captaincy role has seen him take the armband more than expected.
He has shown, on his day, that he can be one of the leaders in the dressing room which helps Manchester United through the difficult spells.
However what can also be noted is that on Sunday, Fernandes abandoned his duties as the Reds' captain. His sometimes petulant behaviour at Liverpool went beyond natural disappointment at the result and towards petulance. ALSO READ: Four moments Fernandes must change to keep captaincy Fernandes will have disappointed many United fans with his performance at Anfield but ruling him out from being the next permanent captain of the Reds seems to be jumping the gun.
While his role as captain in Harry Maguire's absence is not dangling by a thread, the next few weeks are now crucial for the 28-year-old.