Paul Scholes is backing Manchester United vice-captain Bruno Fernandes to learn from his performance during Sunday's 7-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, but has warned that the club might need to find an alternative option to don the armband.
The Portugal international, who has shouldered the responsibility of being captain in Harry Maguire's absence this season, experienced a difficult afternoon against Jurgen Klopp's side, meaning he came under intense scrutiny from supporters and pundits, including Gary Neville and Roy Keane. As United capitulated in the second half, Fernandes refused to step forward and lead by example, instead wilting as Liverpool added to their tally.
Though he has since been cleared of any wrongdoing, Fernandes attracted criticism for pushing the linesman during the second half and was guilty of going down theatrically after being tapped on the chest by Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate. He was also guilty of throwing his arms around in frustration at his teammates.
