The aftermath of this afternoon’s defeat to Watford is going to be gruesome reading for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. In truth, Watford thoroughly deserved their victory against United.
It was a rude awakening for Solskjaer, who was already fighting to keep his job. The defeat was United’s biggest to a newly-promoted side since 1989 and has left the Reds with just 17 points from 12 games.
Over the last two years, Bruno Fernandes has come to the Norwegian’s rescue on numerous occasions but this season, the Portugal international’s goals have dried up and subsequently, so have United’s ability to grind out results.
The 27-year-old is integral to United’s play and following the defeat to Watford, where he was anonymous for large parts of the 90-minute affair, Fernandes tried to explain the defeat in a dejected interview.
🗣️ "It's everyone's fault… It's not the coach, it's not one player – it's everyone."@B_Fernandes8's reaction after @ManUtd's 4-1 defeat to Watford.
🎙️ @CarrieBrownTV#beINPL #MUNWAT #MUFC pic.twitter.com/62k5VSf9hT
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) November 20, 2021
Read more: Three players get 1/10 including Harry Maguire: player ratings from Watford 4-1 Man Utd
“We did that (play like a wounded animal) but just for one half,” Fernandes told BeIN Sports, as seen above. “That is not enough in these kinds of games, in the Premier League, it’s not enough playing just for one half.
“Watford are a good team, they are aggressive and they have quality up front. If you give them chances, you will concede goals. And that has been a problem for us in many games.
“I think the reaction in the second half was there, in the first half it was too sloppy. From everyone, we don’t go on the front foot, we don’t tackle, we don’t win our duels. Against these teams, you have to win that.
“You have to try to keep the same intensity as them.”
SN’s verdict on Fernandes’ interview…
We’re at a point now where words are not enough. We’ve heard these scripted responses on numerous occasions now and it almost feels rehearsed at this point.
Actions speak louder than words and we’re not seeing enough actions from Fernandes or the majority of his team-mates. It’s time to stand up and be counted.
Social media apologises are boring at this point, start performing on the pitch instead.
Ole out nonsense
Yes ole out