Michael Owen was critical of Bruno Fernandes’ disciplinary record after Manchester United’s defeat against Bournemouth (PLP)
Michael Owen slammed Bruno Fernandes’ lack of discipline following Manchester United’s humiliating home defeat against Bournemouth.
Having appeared to have turned the corner with their best performance of the season against Chelsea in midweek, Erik ten Hag’s side were firmly put back in their place by the Cherries.
United’s misery was compounded late on when Fernandes was booked for dissent, collected his fifth yellow card of the season and will miss next weekend’s showdown at Anfield against Liverpool as a result.
The club captain was, perhaps, fortunate to escape further punishment for a rash challenge on Adam Smith and former United midfielder Own Hargreaves conceded he was fortunate not to be given his marching orders.
‘We saw Ayew sent off for less earlier,’ said Hargreaves, referencing the Crystal Palace forward’s dismissal against Liverpool earlier on Saturday.
Bruno Fernandes will miss next weekend’s game between Manchester United and Liverpool (Picture: Getty)
‘Thing is if you’re club captain you can’t get sent off for dissent with Liverpool on the weekend you just can’t.’
Owen, meanwhile, quipped that Fernandes wouldn’t have fancied a trip to Anfield given the Reds’ rampant form which has taken them to the top of the table.
‘I wonder how many yellow cards he’s had for dissent and waving his arms about,’ he said.
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‘Possibly you don’t fancy going to Anfield. I wouldn’t at the moment. I’m not sure you’re thinking of the next game when you’re in the thick of playing.
‘He should be responsible, he should be a good ambassador, a leader for the team.
‘We all know referees are clamping down on that and he gets booked an awful lot for a player who hardly puts his foot in and tackles really he gets booked an awful lot.’
MORE : Bruno Fernandes apologises to Manchester United fans after 3-0 drubbing against Bournemouth
MORE : Bruno Fernandes slammed by Chris Sutton with Man Utd captain now suspended from Liverpool clash
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Another day to forget for Erik ten Hag.