Man Utd duo ‘not helping’ as honest Bruno Fernandes verdict highlights huge issue

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has endured a below-par start to the season after signing a new contract in the summer, contributing to his side's early woes. But former United striker Louis Saha doesn't believe the Portuguese maestro is entirely at fault, aiming fire at Erik ten Hag's use of two team-mates.

Fernandes has failed to score and registered just four assists in 11 appearances in all competitions so far this term.

He also received his first red card for the club in the 3-3 draw at FC Porto earlier this month following a reckless high boot.

Fernandes had unbelievably been sent off in the previous game, a 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham before the FA overturned the decision for wrongful dismissal.

The 30-year-old's form has sparked mass concerns about whether he has started to decline shortly after committing his future to United until 2027, with the option of a further year.

But Saha doesn't believe Ten Hag is setting up his team to suit Fernandes' needs, questioning the Dutchman's use of midfield partners Kobbie Mainoo and Christian Eriksen.

"It could be a bit of bad luck that Bruno Fernandes hasn't scored yet; he's hit the bar, and these things happen," Saha told Paddy Power.

"He doesn't seem to be as confident, but also Manchester United's tactics are a part of it. He hasn't been helped and has been given many passes by the wingers.

"His talent does the talking – but when the talent doesn't talk, you'll find him struggling. His work rate has been the same, but the team aren't linking up as well.

"Some of those tactical choices in midfield – United have good players, but they're missing the legs.

"Kobbie Mainoo and Christian Eriksen are good on the ball, but sometimes they play too deep and not close enough to the strikers. They're too far away and their positioning is not right – it's a struggle to watch."

Ten Hag doesn't seem to know his strongest midfield as Casemiro continues to struggle to maintain the level of performance in his first season.

Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte is bedding into life in English football after his £50million switch from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer.

Ugarte was expected to make up Ten Hag's first-choice trio alongside Mainoo and Fernandes, and that may be the long-term plan.

But for now, United's imbalanced midfield is negatively impacting individuals as much as the team.