MANCHESTER: Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim insists his player Bruno Fernandes is a pillar for the team.
Amorim’s stance was to defend the Portuguese national player after being criticized by the former captain of the English Premier League club, Roy Keane.
Fernandes, who was named man of the match in United’s 3-2 win over Ipswich Town on Sunday, has often been criticised for his attitude on the pitch and admitted how his body language and complaints have irritated teammates and opponents in the past.
Keane has previously criticised Fernandes’ work rate, saying: “Talent alone is not enough! You only think about talent – Bruno is a talented player, but that’s not enough.”
Amorim said he completely disagreed with Keane’s statement against Fernandes.
“I heard it. I have a different opinion. Bruno is very important for us and the club. He played well in a difficult context,” the manager said ahead of the FA Cup tie against Fulham.
“He always wants to take responsibility. I know sometimes as a captain, he does things based on the girth on his arm but mostly it’s been disappointing this year and last year.
“He wants to win and sometimes it’s hard to handle disappointment.
“Everyone has an opinion. Roy Keane had high standards in his time at the club and it’s normal to have an opinion.
“I have a different opinion and I think my opinion is more important than Roy Keane’s because I’m his coach.”