Erik ten Hag urged to relieve Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United captaincy

Former Newcastle and Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew has suggested that Erik ten Hag should consider stripping Bruno Fernandes of the Manchester United captaincy to alleviate some of the pressure on the Portugal international.

Pardew believes that Fernandes, who recently signed a new contract with Manchester United, might be feeling the weight of the armband.

The midfielder had a challenging game against Liverpool, as did his teammates, contributing to a difficult start to the season for the Red Devils.

Bruno Fernandes was appointed captain at the beginning of the 2023/24 season, taking over from Harry Maguire.

Despite leading Manchester United through a tough year and securing the FA Cup at the end of the season, Fernandes struggled to make an impact in the recent defeat to Liverpool at Old Trafford.

Pardew argues that United’s difficulties against Liverpool hindered Fernandes’s ability to lead effectively, suggesting that a change in captaincy might help the team.

“Today, it was never Fernandes because they (United) never had the ball enough,” Pardew told talkSPORT.

“Defensively, he’s not been called upon. How can he lead the team?

“It’s a very difficult one for him.

“I actually think it would be better for him as a footballer to take it off him.

“I think it might free him up a bit, let him be a bit more free-minded.

“He’s probably worrying about the back four, worrying about the wingers.

“You don’t really know how to deal with it.

“I don’t know, I think it’s a hamper to him.”

Pardew noted that selecting technically gifted players as captains can sometimes be problematic.

The 63-year-old emphasized that these players may occasionally struggle in matches, which can hinder their ability to effectively lead the team

“You’ve got your skipper out there, you’ve got a technical skipper, when you’ve got a technician as a skipper, I think it’s always dangerous because they’re going to have off games,” he said

“Even (Christian) Eriksen in his prime, (Michel) Platini in his prime, they’d have the off day.

“They were technical players.”

Fernandes’ leadership has been questioned by figures like Paul Ince and Roy Keane, but he responded to the criticism during a press conference last season.

He said: “I have to deal with that. I understand that the tough part is always coming after the first games, when results and performances aren’t always as they should be.

“I know my numbers when I came made me a target.

“My focus is on the team, on the staff, on those who work with me day-by-day.

“The way I am it has not changed by being the captain. I am really open with everyone.

“I have to keep the same way.”

Read more: Italy coach explains why Federico Chiesa declined invitation ahead of UEFA Nations League games

Graeme Souness gives Liverpool title prediction after Manchester United win

Victor Osimhen agrees to join Galatasaray on loan after Chelsea transfer collapse