Erik ten Hag always supports his players. Even when well paid pundits come out with the craziest of statements, the Manchester United manager is ready to come out fighting.
No punches pulled.
It comes as no surprise that Ten Hag would want to defend Bruno Fernandes, who has received some ridiculous criticism at times this season.
For instance, at the start of March, Chris Sutton questioned Fernandes’ role as captain in Ten Hag’s side, telling BBC Sport: “There are people that are far better qualified to be captain. Fernandes is not their best leader. There are more suitable candidates than him.”
I have long been of the opinion that Fernandes is one of the best leaders in the team. Yes, he moans a bit, but footballers have different ways of showing leadership. Fernandes is not a Roy Keane, but in the same way the team misses him whenever he’s not in it.
Fernandes scored United’s only goal against Aston Villa in Sunday’s 1-0 win at Old Trafford. His winner came days after a fine assist against Tottenham away from home.
In response to Fernandes’ most recent performance, Ten Hag has praised the player’s qualities and said United need more players like the Portugal international.
Ten Hag told club media: “He [Bruno] is so tough. A couple of weeks ago, there was questioning about his captaincy, it’s crazy, because he is such a big leader by example.
“He gives so much energy to the team, besides his smartness, his determination, his passion and his resilience. So, yeah, I think this team are so happy.
“We need such players if you want to win games and if you want to win trophies.”
It wouldn’t be a bad idea for United to sign a similar player to Fernandes in the summer to give the manager a chance to rotate in matches. Much like Casemiro, we don’t have an alternative option to Fernandes who is good enough.
Just a week ago, Fernandes left the Wembley pitch with an injury and was later seen wearing a protective boot. That didn’t stop him coming back for the next game!
Fernandes’ determination should be appreciated. It’s one of the big reasons United are having such a good season.
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