'Bruno deserves respect!' - Roy Keane called out for 'harsh' criticism of Fernandes as 'loyal' Man Utd captain sees Louis Saha jump to his defence

Keane, known for his no-nonsense punditry, has repeatedly questioned Fernandes’ ability to inspire his teammates, often highlighting what he perceives as a lack of composure and excessive complaining on the pitch. He has argued that talent alone is not sufficient for a captain, stressing the importance of leading by example.

"Talent is not enough! You keep going back to talent - Bruno's a talented player, but it's not enough!" Keane stated. "Who were you (Ian Wright) in the dressing room with, Tony Adams! Tony Adams was this, Tony Adams was that, because he was a fighter! You've got young players who have to look at somebody and go 'I like what he does'. They all can't put the ball in the top of the net from 25 yards, I get that, but you want someone who's going 'Lads, are you with me? Are you with me?'"

However, Saha that the criticism directed at the Portuguese playmaker is unjust and could even push him toward an exit from Old Trafford.

Speaking to Genting Casino, the former United forward expressed his fears that excessive criticism might force Fernandes to consider his options.

"He could be tempted because, yes, he has proved over the years that he plays to a certain standard. He plays really well and is still being harshly attacked," Saha said. "I always come to the defence of Bruno because, as I said, I try to explain what I see and I think it's completely unfair. It’s interesting that Roy Keane has criticised him. I understand and I respect his point because he knows his position. He knows what leaders need to do. That's not easy when you are a fan, you criticise harshly. But I would still say it is harsh, because Bruno deserves respect, and as a human being you make mistakes and all sorts."

Saha further argued that Fernandes’ commitment to the club should not be overlooked, especially when the Red Devils are struggling to revive their fortunes since the exit of Sir Alex Ferguson.

"I think he has too much weight on his shoulders and at some point he may consider other opportunities," he added. "Whenever he talks, I don't see someone who just wants to play for the club as much as he can. He is really loyal. He seems to be a very loyal player. So I do think that he will be likely to stay."

Fernandes has taken the criticism in his stride and has vowed to use the Irishman's words as motivation.

Speaking after Manchester United's 3-0 win against Leicester City before the international break, Fernandes said: "Obviously, it's not nice to hear those things about you, I think no one likes that. But at the same time, it motivates and makes you think people think there's a lot of things you have to improve.

"You have to take it in a positive way, and think whatever people are saying, if there's a margin for improvement or not. I know you're talking about Roy Keane. I have huge respect for Roy Keane. I think he was one of the best captains the club had. An amazing player for the club, won basically everything for this club."

Following his international duty with Portugal, Fernandes is set to return to Manchester United for a crucial period in their season. The Red Devils face Nottingham Forest on April 1 before heading into a high-stakes derby against Manchester City on April 6.