Scott McTominay is about to play a new position for Manchester United against Liverpool FC

Erik ten Hag was heavily criticised in the aftermath of the defeat to Bournemouth and many wondered why he didn't substitute Bruno Fernandes to prevent the midfielder from picking up a yellow card.

Bournemouth had a three-goal advantage and the result was all but guaranteed, so it made sense to replace Fernandes to protect him from a fifth yellow card of the season and a suspension.

Fernandes had already been cautioned and he was visibly frustrated with the team's performance. It felt inevitable he'd be booked and he received a card for a cynical challenge in the 84th minute.

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That fifth yellow card of the season means Fernandes will serve a one-match suspension against Liverpool this weekend and his unavailability comes at a time when the injury list is concerning.

United will needlessly travel to Merseyside without their captain and one of their best players. They have lost their previous two visits to Anfield 7-0 and 4-0 and supporters are fearing the worst again.

Fernandes has been complicit in recent humiliations against Liverpool, but his absence due to suspension is a huge blow, especially when Christian Eriksen and Mason Mount have injuries.

Both Eriksen (knee) and Mount (calf) haven't played since facing Luton Town on November 11 and although the latter is thought to be closer to a return, both players are expected to be unavailable this weekend.

Should that be the case, the options to replace Fernandes in the attacking midfield role are limited and Ten Hag will have to pick between Donny van de Beek, Hannibal Mejbri and Scott McTominay.

Van de Beek has shown he isn't good enough for