Danny Murphy believes Bruno Fernandes needs to be dropped by Manchester United for Christian Eriksen
Former Premier League midfielder Danny Murphy believes Bruno Fernandes needs to be dropped by Manchester United from the starting lineup. The ex-Liverpool ace feels the Portuguese needs added motivation to get back to his best.
Fernandes has been one of the most used players by Erik ten Hag this season. The 28-year-old has featured in every match for the Dutch manager in the current campaign. However, the midfielder has cut a frustrated figure on occasions.
Man United welcomed Newcastle United to Old Trafford on 16 October. The Premier League fixture ended in a 0-0 draw. The Red Devils were unable to create a lot of chances in the match.
The first half was a dull affair. Joelinton was the player with the best opportunity to find the back of the net before the break, as he hit the crossbar twice in a matter of seconds.
Man United came out the gates in the second half as Cristiano Ronaldo managed to beat Nick Pope. However, the 37-year-old’s strike was offside. The Portuguese cheekily beat the Magpies’ goalkeeper once again. But the goal was ruled out.
With Marcus Rashford coming on, the Red Devils looked a bit more threatening. However, Fernandes and the rest of the supporting cast were unable to get on the scoresheet. And speaking on Match of the Day via The Daily Mail after the draw, Murphy suggested the Portuguese be dropped.
“It’s a real concern for one of their most creative players (lack of goal involvements).
“I think when Eriksen comes back he [Erik Ten Hag] may have to take him out of the firing line for a little while and put Eriksen in [to] give him a little kick up the bottom to see if they can improve his numbers because every player needs that now and again.”
Eriksen was on the sidelines for the fixture against Newcastle. The Denmark international has been one of our main players this season. The 30-year-old has brought creativity to the middle of the park.
On the other hand, Fernandes has been unable to emulate the numbers he produced when he first joined Man United. In 13 games in all competitions in the 2022/23 campaign, the 28-year-old has one goal and two assists.
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Eriksen has mostly played in the number eight position and thrived there. The Red Devils do not seem to have another quality option for the number 10 position barring Fernandes. Hopefully, the Portuguese is able to get back to his best soon.
