Legendary Manchester United striker Luis Saha has reportedly defended Bruno Fernandes after the 28-year-old was heavily criticized for his "body language and reactions" during Manchester United's annihilation at Liverpool on Sunday.
Manchester United left Anfield with their heads hanging down their necks after a disastrous defeat at the hands of archrival Liverpool. Braces from Darwin Nez, Mohammed Salah, and Cody Gakpo plus a Bobby Firmino goal after coming on from the bench mean Erik Ten Hag's men lost 7-0 to Jurgen Klopp's side.
While it was collectively a poor performance from the players as a team, Bruno Fernandes appears to be targeted by critics as a scapegoat for Manchester United's latest failure. Pundits, media, and a section of the fans have scrutinized the midfielder for his reactions and body language towards his teammates during the game at Anfield.
While he was as well, being faulted by the Premier League ref support, who are calling for the former Sporting Lisbon captain to be given a five-match ban after he pushed linesman Adam Nunn on the back. Although the FA has alleged that no further action will be taken against Manchester United's number 8, the Reds are reportedly in disagreement.
According to SkySports Ref Support’s CEO, "just like someone doing a Ronaldo celebration or a Cruyff turn, children will mimic what they see on TV." We’re talking about a world-class official being pushed in the back here. Fernandes behaved like an entitled child.
Former Manchester United and France international Luis Saha has stepped in to defend the under-fire playmaker and likened him to the legendary Roy Keane, who was once a cog in the 20-time Premier League Champions' midfield.
"I will defend Bruno; everyone is entitled to make mistakes, and he will learn from them and reflect; maybe he’ll see what fans and pundits have said about his behavior, and he will think about it," Saha stated.
"I think he wants to win, and that’s what I see in him." If the players around him are unhappy with his body language and are worried about being criticised by their captain, change jobs.”
Bruno Fernandes has been an undroppable player for Erik Ten Hag's Man United this season; he has missed just one game this season due to suspension and has started when available.
Gary Neville was openly critical of the Portuguese international as he cited the moment when the stand-in captain lost his head during the game.
"Bruno Fernandes is stood in the centre circle with his arms raised saying why isn’t it me coming off? Honestly, I have to say that some of his behaviour in this second half has been a disgrace. He’s been brilliant for Manchester United at times, his assists and his goals," Neville said on Sky Sports commentary as Anthony Elanga was about to be brought on.
"Look, that first 40 minutes would be what I would call a classic away performance at Anfield where I thought Manchester United weathered the storm and it looked like they were gonna go and get the goal and go ahead at half-time, but they conceded just on the stroke of half-time.
"The second half has been an absolute disgrace, a shambles, epitomised no more by the captain Bruno Fernandes, who I think has been embarrassing at times in this game. But, I have to say, it’s not their usual performance, it’s not their usual form, it’s not their usual spirit, and he (Ten Hag) will deal with it, I’m sure. Very quickly, like he’s dealt with other difficult situations this season."
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