Bruno Fernandes sometimes appears like the only Manchester United player capable of leaving his stamp on a contest.
Man Utd were pushed aside by Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday, the latest in a long sequence of meek displays under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim this season.
As usual, Fernandes gave it his best, but he stood out like a sore thumb against a United squad that is too easy to beat.
For United supporters, the disparity was particularly concerning when playing against teams that are focused, well-versed in their roles, and put in a lot of effort during the ninety minutes.
Amorim’s team, on the other hand, is all too ready to let games slip by.
Fernandes has had enough of Sky Sports commentator Roy Keane, who as a player led Manchester United by example.
In his post-match interview at St. James’ Park, the current United captain attempted to rally the troops. “To me, it’s kind of just soundbites now from him,” Keane said.
Following a 2-2 tie in the first leg, Fernandes and his teammates are anticipating Thursday’s second leg of their Europa League quarterfinal matchup against Lyon. When Keane noticed the diversion, he skewered it.
“By the way, let’s hope they win on Thursday. That’s all they’re discussing, my goodness.”
Although the Irishman may have been too contemptuous of Lyon, it is evident that he still holds Manchester United to a number of standards, one of which is defeating Ligue 1 teams in Europe.
It’s another to approach every game with the highest level of professionalism, and Keane found it annoying that United is concentrating on the Europa League when their most recent home performance was so poor.
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