Manchester United endured a frustrating 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday.
A clinical strike from James Maddison was enough to seal all three points for Spurs.
While United struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, they came alive after the break.
They created several opportunities, only to fall short with poor final passes and a lack of finishing touch.
Although the fans will understandably be disappointed with the result, they should reconsider blaming Bruno Fernandes.
United cannot function without Fernandes
The United captain did not cover himself in glory, losing possession 28 times.
Partnering with Casemiro at the base of the midfield, Fernandes frequently pressed forward.
This created significant space for the 32-year-old, who no longer has the legs to cover such expansive areas of the pitch.
While some people may criticise manager Ruben Amorim for pairing the duo together, his hands were tied due to injuries to Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer.
It was a gamble Amorim had no choice but to take.
Fernandes started to pull strings in the second half, and United immediately looked threatening.
The £46 million-rated star orchestrated play, leading the charge with an impressive 14 passes in the final third.
He should have claimed an assist when he delivered a brilliantly weighted ball to Alejandro Garnacho, only for the young forward to blaze his shot wildly over the bar.
He triumphed in five of his six duels and topped the charts with five tackles, showcasing his defensive prowess.
Fernandes gave his all as he covered up for the lack of pressing from Joshua Zirkzee as the right-sided number 10.
He looked exhausted by the final whistle and did not deserve to end up on the losing end.
The phenomenal ace is United’s best player, and the fans should respect his contribution.
Stats from Transfemarkt.com & Fotmob.com.
