Paul Scholes names Man Utd's three leaders and gives captaincy decision verdict

07 September 2023 , 01:00

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Paul Scholes has had his say on the Man United captaincy (Image: Getty Images)

Paul Scholes has backed current Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes despite arguing Erik ten Hag now has three leaders at his disposal.

The Portuguese midfielder took the armband on numerous occasions in the 2022/23 campaign with Harry Maguire struggling to hold down a first team place. Therefore, it was of little surprise when he was appointed full-time skipper this summer after the England centre back was permanently stripped of the honour.

But his leadership credentials have been questioned during United's first four Premier League games, with the side stuttering after defeats at Tottenham and Arsenal. His manager has hit back at critics though, arguing his playmaker's desire and quality make him the ideal choice.

And United icon Scholes, who won 11 Premier League titles with the Red Devils, has argued he was the best candidate. And he also implied that his often theatrical behaviour actually underlined his determination.

“I know when Harry lost his captaincy, people were talking about Marcus (Rashford) - I never saw that," he told the YouTube show FIVE. "Look, I don’t know him in the dressing room but he wouldn’t be someone who strikes me as being a captain.

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“Whereas Bruno has done it, hasn’t he? I think now for the first time, there’s quite a few leaders in the team. You think of the experience they’ve got, with the manager they’ve brought in. Varane, a World Cup winner, Real Madrid. Casemiro.

“All of a sudden there are three or four players in that team who are capable of being captain, and I think Bruno is probably the right choice because he seems to be the one they all look up to."

Bruno Fernandes in action against Arsenal (Getty Images)

Indeed, whilst United's form has been questioned, the 28-year-old has been considered one of Ten Hag's standout performers. And Scholes, 48, argued he was doing a "fantastic" job despite the side floundering.

“He’s done a fantastic job when he has been captain and he looks a leader, he’s the one that’s always having a go, always trying to rally his team. I think it’s a great choice.”

Fernandes is now on international duty ahead of Portugal's double-header as they bid for Euro 2024 qualification. The go to Slovakia on Friday before hosting Luxembourg the following Tuesday.

Fraser Watson