'The last thing you want as a manager': Sam Allardyce issues Fernandes warning to Ten Hag

Sam Allardyce has insinuated that Bruno Fernandes lacks the qualities to captain Man United. "Well, he’s like that though isn’t he, he’s temperamental," Allardyce told William Hill. "It’s in his nature, isn’t it?

"He waves his arms about, we had enough of that with him last year as if it wasn’t his fault. It’s his temperament; it’s the way he shows his emotions and waves his hands, which, as a manager, is the last thing that you want.

"He’s a technically brilliant player, but he might not have leadership qualities. You’ve got to pick out leadership qualities in your side and those qualities come in many forms.

"You can’t put the best player as captain if he’s not a leader because you might destroy his game. Some players might turn around and say 'why don’t you shut your mouth? You’re playing rubbish aren’t you, so what are you telling me for?'"

Fernandes was the subject of much criticism following United’s embarrassing 7-0 defeat against Liverpool last weekend.

Gary Neville and Roy Keane described his performance as "disgraceful" while Chris Sutton said he should be stripped of the captaincy for pushing the linesman towards the end of the thrashing.

Erik ten Hag defended Fernandes earlier in the week and the Portugal star responded to his critics by producing an impressive performance in the 4-1 Europa League win over Real Betis.