Erik ten Hag told to captain under performing Manchester United star vs Liverpool FC

Giving the Manchester United armband to Marcus Rashford could be the catalyst to spark him back into form.

That's according to former United man Dimitar Berbatov as he assesses the captaincy options available to Erik ten Hag for his side's match with Liverpool on Sunday afternoon. Bruno Fernandes will miss the impending showdown through suspension after picking up five yellow cards in the Premier League this season.

Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and Casemiro have all led United at various points this campaign when Fernandes has not been on the pitch. However, amid mounting injury concerns including Lindelof and Casemiro, and a lack of recent minutes for Varane, there isn't a standout captaincy candidate.

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Rashford is fit to feature at Anfield after illness but a lack of form has seen him dropped recently with the England forward hitting the net just twice for United in 20 games this term. According to Berbatov, though, handing Rashford the armband might bring the best out of him.

Berbatov told bookmakers Betfair: "We know that [Fernandes] is not playing, that's another problem to deal with. United will have to hope whoever comes into his place can do the job, but it's a big blow for them.

"Sometimes how to deal with a player who is going through a difficult patch of form it's good to show them faith. Marcus Rashford needs to be shown faith, maybe he should be captain for the game.

"It can be a final test for him to lead the team. Rashford could realise this is his chance to be a leader and the main star at United. These moments can elevate players, they need an arm around their shoulders.

"This