Dimitar Berbatov says it would be “disrespectful” to remove Bruno Fernandes as Manchester United captain, suggesting that it would only add fuel to the fire at Old Trafford.
The former Reds striker, though, says the midfielder does “need to work on” his on-pitch behaviour, something former United skipper Roy Keane criticised following the club’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday.
“I saw Gary [Neville] and Roy Keane’s comments and I agree with what Gary said,” Berbatov told Betfair. “If you change the captaincy now, then it will only add to the turbulence in the team.” Fernandes has been in the role for three months after taking over from Harry Maguire.
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Some have questioned Erik ten Hag’s decision, pointing to Fernandes’ in-game gesticulations when United are on the back foot. Berbatov sympathised with the 29-year-old, suggesting his frustrations are only on show because of the team’s poor performances albeit admits the player must take better control of his emotions.
“Now if you take it [captaincy] from Bruno, that will be bad for his morale,” he added. “If he is removed as Man United captain, then his performances will dip because it’s disrespectful to him.
“Bruno will be aware of the criticism regarding his behaviour, and he will need to work on it. The reason for Fernandes’ current behaviour is due to how the team is performing. He’s not happy with it. I’ve been there myself and I know the feeling. It’s not a good one.
“When you’re the captain and things aren’t going well, you need to shout, and you need to be angry with the players around you. We know where he’s coming from with all this, but I don’t think the armband should be taken away from him.”
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