'It winds me up massively' – Rio Ferdinand gives unequivocal verdict on Bruno Fernandes

Rio Ferdinand has voiced displeasure with those Manchester United fans urging the club to sell Bruno Fernandes.

The club captain was absent for Sunday's disappointing 1-0 Premier League defeat at home to Arsenal, where Erik ten Hag's side looked lacking in the creative third. In truth, the Red Devils were missing more than a little bit of attacking impetus, but all the more reason to count any positives going for the squad.

And Ferdinand, 45, made no bones about his belief that Fernandes is very much one of those and should be valued as United target another rebuild next season. The Portuguese has encountered more flack this season after being given the armband, despite the fact he leads the team in both goals (15) and assists (11) in all competitions.

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"I feel like we're on repeat here, but we just look like an uncoached team," said Ferdinand on the latest episode of his Vibe with FIVE podcast. "I'd say at the creative end of the pitch, we were lacking massively [against Arsenal]. Decision-making, quality. [They] just weren't there."

Co-host Stephen Howson responded by heaping praise on Sofyan Amrabat and Amad after the pair impressed in rare starts. Ferdinand then replied with a personal testimonial of his own as he used the uninspired performance as proof of Fernandes' value.

"Can I just say another thing: Look in my eyes when I tell you this please," urged the ex-England international. "All of you people who are saying 'Bruno out,' again I want humble pie eaten. Because in the last couple of games, creativity