Evra gives surprise choice for Man Utd captaincy as Fernandes blasted

Patrice Evra believes that Bruno Fernandes should have his Manchester United captaincy removed and makes a surprise suggestion to replace him.

Fernandes was appointed club captain in 2023 by former manager Erik ten Hag, following the decision to strip Harry Maguire of the role.

Despite being one of United's standout players and recently extending his contract until 2027, Fernandes has faced intense scrutiny over his ability to lead the team.

The criticism escalated after Graeme Souness described the 30-year-old as a "liability" following his third red card of the season in the Boxing Day defeat at Wolves.

With United currently enduring one of the most challenging periods in their recent history, Amorim has acknowledged the team’s leadership void, stating on Friday that they are "starving for leaders on the pitch."

Amorim also addressed the club’s decision to extend Maguire’s contract, calling the England defender "a leader" and emphasizing his importance to the squad.

"We need him a lot, and he also has to improve as a leader," Amorim said. "We all know the situation he had here, but we’re happy to trigger the option for Harry."

Amid this backdrop, United legend Evra has thrown his support behind Maguire, suggesting he should be reinstated as captain.

Reacting to an Instagram post announcing Maguire’s contract extension, Evra wrote: “Give him the armband back!!!! After all he’s been through, showing resilience and leadership.”

Maguire, once on the brink of a move to West Ham, stayed at Old Trafford and has since become a valuable squad member.

While he captained United in a Carabao Cup victory over Barnsley in September, Lisandro Martinez has often worn the armband during Fernandes' suspensions.

Despite Fernandes' impending return as captain for United's trip to Anfield on Sunday to face league leaders Liverpool, expectations for a positive result are low.

The Red Devils have lost five of their last six league games, leaving them languishing in 14th place.