Bruno Fernandes Avoids Ban After Successful Appeal

Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United captain has successfully avoided a ban after the club appealed against his red card in the loss to Tottenham on Sunday. The 30-year-old received a straight red card for a foul on Spurs midfielder James Maddison, which would have led to a three-match suspension for serious foul play. However, United argued that the referee’s decision was incorrect. This ruling allowed Fernandes to remain available for upcoming Premier League matches against Aston Villa, Brentford and West Ham.

The incident occurred in the 42nd minute at Old Trafford with Fernandes slipping and inadvertently catching Maddison halfway up the shin. After the match, Fernandes expressed his belief that it was “never a red card,” acknowledging that it was a foul but stating, “I didn’t touch him with the studs or even the foot, it was my ankle.” While Ten Hag welcomed the news, he faced mixed emotions.

Bruno Fernandes may not have been in top form this season but he remains a key player for the team providing both creativity and leadership. United were trailing 1-0 when Fernandes was dismissed and eventually lost 3-0, marking their third league defeat of the campaign. Ten Hag might wonder how the match would have unfolded if his captain had stayed on the pitch as Tottenham led but were not dominant.

In addition to the referee’s controversial decision, Ten Hag has also come under scrutiny for lacking passion according to former coach Benni McCarthy. McCarthy suggested that players desire a coach who shows more fire and commitment. He criticized the training attitude of some players, claiming it hindered the team’s progress. Despite winning the FA Cup last season, United currently sits 13th in the league after six matches.