26 August 2023 , 18:04
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Bruno Fernandes led by example to inspire Manchester United to a dramatic 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest on Saturday afternoon - less than 24 hours after his leadership skills were lauded by Erik ten Hag.
The Red Devils found themselves 2-0 down inside four minutes at Old Trafford as they made the worst possible start against their impressive visitors. Christian Eriksen reduced the arrears in the 17th minute before Fernandes teed up Casemiro to level the scores early in the second half.
Fernandes, who was named as the club's new captain in the summer, completed the turnaround from the spot to cap a performance which should silence his critics.
The Portuguese international was the subject of fierce criticism in the wake of last week's disappointing 2-0 reverse at Tottenham. Several pundits, including Chris Sutton and Ally McCoist, questioned whether Fernandes was a suitable option to captain United after he was booked for dissent by Michael Oliver.
Micah Richards went one further on The Rest Is Football podcast, branding Fernandes' on-field behaviour as "pathetic" after the United skipper lambasted youngster Facundo Pellistri in the close stages of the match.
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Ten Hag made it clear, though, that he had no doubts over his decision to hand Fernandes the armband before Saturday's win over Forest. The Dutchman said: "Of course, I back him and I think he has to make his point. It’s justified, it’s a clear penalty. You can express that. Also, don’t get distracted by it. Keep focusing on your job.
Join the debate! Do you think Fernandes is the right man to captain to Man Utd? Let us know here.
Bruno Fernandes was influential for Manchester United as they fought back to beat Nottingham Forest 3-2 (Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)"Last season when he did it (captaining United), he did brilliantly. Now as well. He’s an inspiration, an example for the team, he has the personality. He is a very good captain."
Fittingly, Fernandes backed up those words to help steer Manchester United to a much needed victory at Old Trafford. The 28-year-old ensured heads didn't drop following Forest's early flurry before going on to produce a man of the match-worthy display in the second half to rescue the Red Devils.
Fernandes clocked up 14 goals and 15 assists for United last term, often deputising as captain in the absence of Harry Maguire. Those attributes, coupled with the midfielder's leadership qualities, make Fernandes untouchable in Ten Hag's eyes.
While the Dutchman may not need convincing when it comes to Fernandes' suitability as Manchester United's captain, others do. Fernandes hit back at his critics with a cryptic social media post, but actions speak louder than words; performances of this ilk will certainly go a long way to silencing those dissenting voices.