Man United boss Erik ten Hag describes Bruno Fernandes as ‘our captain’
Erik ten Hag describes Bruno Fernandes as ‘our captain’ who snubs Harry Maguire.
Erik ten Hag has described Bruno Fernandes as ‘our captain’ in a strong hint that he will take the armband when Harry Maguire leaves Manchester United this summer.
Maguire is United’s captain but has been on the bench for much of the season, meaning Fernandes has been in charge more often than not.
The England defender, who could be on his way to Old Trafford this summer, missed the 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday evening with what Ten Hag described as a ‘training injury’.
With center backs Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane also sidelined with injuries, Victor Lindelof was left in the back with partner Luke Shaw.
In the run-up to Thursday’s game, in which United gave up a two-goal lead, Ten Hag spoke warmly about Fernandes’ effort.
Bruno Fernandes has worn the captain’s armband more times this season than Harry Maguire
United manager Erik ten Hag (right) dropped club captain Harry Maguire (left) earlier this season, with the England defender starting just 15 of his 28 appearances
He was pictured wearing a protective boot earlier this week, casting doubt on his fitness
Fernandes suffered an ankle injury in the FA Cup semi-final against Brighton
The Portuguese playmaker was in doubt after spraining his ankle in Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Brighton and Hove Albion.
He was pictured wearing a protective boot alongside a set of crutches but was still fit to start at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
“Of course he’s ready, it’s Bruno Fernandes,” Ten Hag told MUTV. “He’s strong, he takes responsibility, he wants to play and of course we’re happy to have him here because he’s a big player for us and he makes a big impact in every game.
“He’s our captain, so we’re very happy.”
Maguire made 28 appearances for United in all competitions this season, but only started 15 games.
Ten Hag dropped him after the 4-0 defeat at Brentford in the second game of the season and he is unable to get his place back on a regular basis.
Mail Sport reported earlier this month that United are planning to get brutal this summer with up to 17 players – including Maguire – at risk of being sold to raise money for new additions.
United return to action on Sunday at home to Aston Villa as they look to extend their six-point lead over Spurs in the Champions League.
Fernandes was fit enough to start against Tottenham as United threw away a two-goal lead
