Roy Keane takes aim at Bruno Fernandes, Arsenal legend Ian Wright steps up to defend him

Bruno Fernandes has found himself under scrutiny despite delivering for Manchester United consistently this season.

The Red Devils have appeared shaky all season under Erik ten Hag, whose tactics continue to puzzle many fans. United have conceded seven goals in their last three games in all competitions, failing to dominate games against Bournemouth, Coventry City, and Sheffield United.

However, their captain stepped up in all these games, saving his side from embarrassment with his goals.

He has led by example by scoring five goals in these games. Against Sheffield he was at his creative best, mustering nine chances, with one of them leading to Rasmus Hojlund’s goal late in the 4-2 win.

Still, it appears his contribution this season has not managed to win over everyone.

Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, former Lionesses footballer Jill Scott highlighted the Portuguese’s supposed poor theatrics and attitude towards his teammates during frustrating moments.

Arsenal legend Ian Wright was quick to counter Scott’s point, stating: “Yeah but Jill, Bruno’s a winner, he’s got his fault where you see him doing that [throws arms in the air].”

Keane then hit back, “He’s won nothing in his career! He’s 29 years of age, he’s won nothing!”

Wright then explained, “In respects of wanting to be a winner, his standards are high. And let’s face it, take Bruno out of Man United right now, we’re talking about players who have improved or haven’t, if he’s not doing what he’s doing, Man United are nowhere near where they are.”

It’s hard to disagree with Wright’s points. Fernandes may have not won the biggest of trophies but he has always delivered in big games.

Additionally, the way United have been run behind the scenes, any elite player would have struggled to win anything more than the Portugal international has done so far in England.

The 29-year-old has always made his presence felt in possession. This season alone, he has created 140 chances in all competitions, the most of any player in Europe’s top five leagues.

Out of possession, it’d be a hard task to find a player more passionate and willing to run for his teammates than Fernandes. Further, his availability has been second to none. The United skipper has not missed a game through injury in four years in Manchester.