Why Paul Scholes thinks Bruno Fernandes might have to be stripped of Manchester United captaincy

Paul Scholes is backing Manchester United vice-captain Bruno Fernandes to learn from his performance during Sunday's 7-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, but has warned that the club might need to find an alternative option to don the armband.

The Portugal international, who has shouldered the responsibility of being captain in Harry Maguire's absence this season, experienced a difficult afternoon against Jurgen Klopp's side, meaning he came under intense scrutiny from supporters and pundits, including Gary Neville and Roy Keane. As United capitulated in the second half, Fernandes refused to step forward and lead by example, instead wilting as Liverpool added to their tally.

Though he has since been cleared of any wrongdoing, Fernandes attracted criticism for pushing the linesman during the second half and was guilty of going down theatrically after being tapped on the chest by Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate. He was also guilty of throwing his arms around in frustration at his teammates.

READ MORE: United vs Real Betis LIVE

It was a display that Scholes, despite suggesting that the reaction to Fernandes' showing has been blown out of all proportion, believes the attacking midfielder needs to reflect on and find a way to cut certain traits out of his individual game.

Asked if he felt there had been an overreaction to Fernandes' performance at Anfield, Scholes, speaking to BT Sport, said: "Yes, I do. Look, you have to remember that he has been asked to play in positions that he is not comfortable in and I think he has sacrificed himself for the team for that.

"He was clearly frustrated with his teammates and he shows it in a way that I don't think, when he looks back at it, he will be proud of what happened,