Bruno Fernandes slammed for being 'disrespectful' to Man Utd team-mates as Andy Cole bemoans lack of alternative captaincy options

Erik ten Hag's side have thus far endured a 2023-24 campaign to forget, with their sixth-placed standing papering over many cracks both on and off the pitch. Fernandes has been one of many United players denigrated, not least for his petulant actions as club captain. Red Devils legend Andy Cole believes such behaviour shows "disrespect" towards his team-mates - although he also pointed towards a lack of captaincy options beyond the Portugal star.

Speaking in an interview with Betfred, the ex-United forward said: "There’s talk about Bruno Fernandes not being the right choice for captain, but if you look around the Manchester United dressing room currently, then who else would you give the captaincy to instead? There’s not four or five standout contenders. Bruno leads in a different way and I understand it. I can also understand that people don’t want to see a captain waving his arms about in frustration, which I personally believe is disrespectful to his teammates, but at this moment in time, he’s the man and he will captain the side in a way which he believes is beneficial to himself and his teammates.”

Fernandes' weaknesses as a leader were clear to see while on recent international duty, as he was met with some bemused responses from Portugal team-mates Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva following a half-time discussion. Fernandes did, however, provide a vital spark against Iceland on the pitch, and United fans will be hopeful he can transfer this form to club level and turn around what has been a disappointing start to the campaign.

After completing a perfect World Cup qualifying campaign under Roberto Martinez, the United skipper will return to work under Ten Hag as his United side prepare to take on Everton on Sunday. The Dutchman will be hoping to make it three straight victories in the league against a side who will be rallied by their severe points deduction.