Fernandes’ role is safe, Man United manager Ten Hag says

MANCHESTER, England: As the dust settles on Manchester United’s humiliating 7-0 loss to Liverpool, manager Erik ten Hag is hoping he and his team have learned something from the setback. The Dutchman wants an instant reaction when his team hosts Real Betis in the Europa League on Thursday and his starting lineup could offer an insight into which players he felt were most culpable for the collapse at Anfield. Bruno Fernandes’ position as stand-in captain, however, appears to be safe.

“He’s playing a brilliant season. He’s had a really important role in why we’re in the position where we are because he’s giving energy to the team,” Ten Hag said Wednesday. Fernandes has worn the captain’s armband for the majority of the season in the absence of Harry Maguire, who has lost his regular starting place.

But the Portugal international’s petulant performance against Liverpool, when he was frequently complaining to the referee, has led to plenty of criticism. Some have questioned whether he is captain material. Former United captain Gary Neville, now a television commentator, labeled Fernandes an “embarrassment.” “I think some of his behavior in the second half has been a disgrace,” Neville said.

United denied that Fernandes had asked to be substituted during the game. “He’s pointing and coaching players, he’s an inspirator for the whole team. But no one is perfect, everyone has his mistakes,” Ten Hag said.

“Everyone has to learn. I have to learn and he will learn as well because he’s intelligent. “I’m really happy to have Bruno Fernandes in the team and I’m really happy, if Harry is not on the pitch, that he’s our captain.” Fernandes has started all but one Premier League game this season and has rediscovered some of his best