30 April 2023 , 14:43
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Manchester United fans on social media have flagged a clip from Sunday's match against Aston Villa which appears to show Jadon Sancho bluntly hitting out at Bruno Fernandes for "moaning".
United headed into the game at Old Trafford bidding to strengthen their grip on a top-four place, with Aston Villa sitting back in sixth. And while a 39th-minute strike from Fernandes ensured the Red Devils headed in at the break with an advantage, the Portuguese playmaker was involved in a flashpoint with Sancho during the first half.
In the clip, which has been shared on Twitter, Sancho can be seen mouthing the words "stop moaning" during an exchange with Fernandes, who once again captained Manchester United in the absence of Harry Maguire.
Despite his spat with Sancho, it was an afternoon to remember for Fernandes, whose strike was the 100th league goal of his career.
The 28-year-old has recaptured his best form this season, scoring 10 goals and registering 14 assists across all competitions under Erik ten Hag. However, the Dutchman's decision to hand the midfielder such a prominent leadership role has been criticised in some quarters - particularly in the wake of Fernandes' petulant behaviour against Liverpool earlier in the campaign.
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Old Trafford icon Paul Scholes initially defended Fernandes after he was scrutinised by other figures in the media following the 7-0 defeat against the Reds. But he later conceded that the midfielder isn't capable of being the "calming influence" that United would need when the pressure is on.
Join the debate! What did you make of Fernandes' performance for Man Utd against Aston Villa? Let us know here.
Bruno Fernandes celebrates with Jadon Sancho, but the two exchanged words during Man United's match against Aston Villa (AFP via Getty Images)Speaking on BT Sport last month, Scholes admitted: "Your captain has to be a calming influence, really. He almost has to be the one who calms characters like him down. I worry about him [Fernandes] if Manchester United, in March or April time, are going for a league title.
"I don’t think having Bruno as your captain would be ideal. But we know he’s only the vice-captain at the minute, we know Harry Maguire's not playing. Going forward, bigger games, bigger parts of the season, going for trophies and big Champions League finals and stuff, I think a captain who’s less emotional might be better."
While it remains to be seen if Fernandes will emerge as Manchester United's long-term captain, it appears as though Maguire will consider his future at the end of the season after losing his spot in the team.
Reports earlier in the campaign claimed that the £80million defender was keen to stay at Old Trafford and fight for his place. However, Maguire could now be forced to reconsider that stance amid concerns that a lack of football could damage his chances of featuring for England under Gareth Southgate.