Bruno Fernandes decision can no longer be ignored by Manchester United

Manchester United head to Liverpool on Sunday with questions continuing to be asked about Bruno Fernandes and his role in the starting lineup – Ruben Amorim can’t afford a misstep at Anfield

Bruno Fernandes has carried Manchester United on his back for quite some time. Longer than he will care to remember.

It’s almost a full year since Ruben Amorim pitched up at Old Trafford to replace Erik ten Hag. And since his compatriot’s arrival, no one has made more appearances than the United captain. Equally, no one has done more to lift the club during what has been its most dismal 12 months in the Premier League era.

On Sunday, United head to Anfield with Fernandes facing accusations of “physical fatigue” after Portugal’s failure to beat Hungary on Tuesday night. The Portuguese press were unimpressed with Fernandes – who was booked, to pick up a suspension and was hauled off before Hungary’s late equaliser.

Ironically, that late equaliser came from someone he’ll face on Sunday: Dominik Szoboszlai.

The two could be in direct combat. Then again, they might not. Both see their respective managers move them around the pitch. But while Szoboszlai looks comfortable with whatever the responsibilities are that Arne Slot asks of him – whether as a No.8 a No.10 or even at right-back – comfortable with his role is something Fernandes just currently isn’t.

In Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation, Fernandes has been found badly wanting when asked to play in a deeper midfield position. You don’t have to be a genius to realise that it doesn’t play to his strengths. If the world can see that, then why can’t Amorim too?

When United are up against a supposedly weaker side and dominating – which doesn’t happen that often, let’s be honest, then Fernandes wouldn’t be exposed. But it doesn’t help them to remain secure.

At Anfield this weekend – where Fernandes played as part of the front three in last season’s 2-2 draw – he may well starts as part of the midfield two. To do so would be akin to sending a lamb to the slaughter.

United are heading to Merseyside wanting three points and to build momentum coming out of the international break. They may well take one. Whatever it is, neither will happen if Fernandes is on top of his defence and not trying to make the difference in attack.

He should be leading the attack at Anfield, with Bryan Mbeumo and fit-again Mason Mount, playing to his strengths.

If they don’t they’ll suffer the consequences.

Amorim is still shoe-horning Fernandes into his system’. It needs to stop, or a thumping at Anfield is a possibility.

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