Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Paul Scholes names three Man Utd leaders after giving verdict on Bruno Fernandes reign as skipper

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has backed current skipper Bruno Fernandes, despite arguing that Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag now has three leaders at his disposal.

The Portugal international took over as captain on a temporary basis last season when it became clear that Harry Maguire was not in Ten Hag’s plans, and that role was made permanent over the summer.

However, his leadership skills have often been called into question, with United’s indifferent start to the new season throwing up those suggestions again.

But Scholes, who won 11 Premier League titles with the Red Devils, has argued Fernandes was always the top candidate for the role. Adding that the attacking midfielder’s often theatrical behaviour actually underlined his determination to the cause.

“I know when Harry lost his captaincy, people were talking about Marcus (Rashford) – I never saw that,” he told the YouTube show FIVE. “Look, I don’t know him in the dressing room but he wouldn’t be someone who strikes me as being a captain.

“Whereas Bruno has done it, hasn’t he? I think now for the first time, there’s quite a few leaders in the team. You think of the experience they’ve got, with the manager they’ve brought in. Varane, a World Cup winner, Real Madrid. Casemiro.

“All of a sudden there are three or four players in that team who are capable of being captain, and I think Bruno is probably the right choice because he seems to be the one they all look up to.”

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Fernandes a great choice as skipper

Scholes also believes Fernandes has stood up when others haven’t, adding:  “He’s done a fantastic job when he has been captain and he looks a leader, he’s the one that’s always having a go, always trying to rally his team. I think it’s a great choice.”

Fernandes is currently away with Portugal ahead of a double-header as they bid for Euro 2024 qualification.

As for United, they are back in action on September 16 when they host Brighton in the Premier League at Old Trafford.

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