As Manchester United gears up to face Liverpool at Anfield, the notable absence of Bruno Fernandes due to suspension has sparked commentary from former Tottenham Hotspur manager Tim Sherwood. Sherwood suggests that United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, should engage in a conversation with the influential attacking midfielder regarding his disciplinary issues.
Fernandes, a pivotal figure in United’s midfield, will be sidelined for the clash with Liverpool after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season against Bournemouth. This booking, acquired for dissent, led to his suspension, a circumstance that prompted speculation, including BeIN SPORT presenter Richard Keys’ suggestion that Fernandes intentionally garnered the yellow card.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Sherwood expressed his view that ten Hag should address Fernandes about the situation. The former Sporting Lisbon star has been instrumental for United, contributing three goals and three assists in the Premier League and two goals and two assists in the UEFA Champions League this season.
Sherwood emphasized the need for a conversation, stating, “If I am the manager, I am asking him questions. I am saying, ‘Why did you do something so stupid because we need every player we can get at the moment, and you have let us down?’” He pointed out that constructive discussions with key players, even those wearing the armbands, are essential for team dynamics.
Liverpool enters the match as the favorite, considering their superior form and historical success against United at Anfield. The absence of Fernandes, Sherwood notes, compounds the challenge for United, but he raises broader concerns about the team’s overall performance.
In a candid analysis, Sherwood questioned whether ten Hag is holding players accountable, especially those in leadership roles, while critiquing the manager’s tendency to criticize other players but perhaps not addressing key figures directly.
The looming clash between Liverpool and Manchester United carries significant implications for both teams’ aspirations. As the footballing world anticipates the outcome, the absence of Fernandes amplifies the scrutiny on ten Hag’s managerial approach and the team’s ability to navigate challenges against formidable opponents.