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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Jack Flintham

Manchester United accused of 'carrying' Bruno Fernandes following contract extension

Manchester United have been accused of carrying Bruno Fernandes after the Portuguese midfielder signed a new contract at Old Trafford this week.

The 27-year-old signed a deal that commits him to United until at least 2026. Speaking after signing the deal, Fernandes said: "From the moment that I joined Manchester United I have had a special relationship with the club and our amazing fans. I grew up watching this team, dreaming of getting the chance to play here one day.

"That dream is now a reality and an honour." However, Martin Keown believes that Fernandes' shortcomings need to be worked on and would keep him out of a side like Manchester City.

ALSO READ: Bruno Fernandes and James Maddison have justified Manchester United transfer decision

Speaking to talkSPORT, the former Arsenal defender said: "I think it is tricky with Fernandes as he plays in a specific position just off the front. I wonder actually if he was at Manchester City, would he get a game there?

"Where is he going to play in that Man City midfield? I know that they play with one sitter with two either side, could you do that?

"Could he play either side of someone who sits for Manchester United? It doesn't seem that him and [Paul] Pogba fit together very well. I think he probably could (get in the Liverpool side) but he is going to have to work much harder defensively and that is the problem. It feels like Manchester United are carrying him from a defensive aspect.

"You have got to get him to do more defensively and he just disappears in games. Nonetheless, they have got to defend their asset.

"They have given him this wonderful contract. You know he has got that ability but, for me, he has to do more."

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