Man United star told he’s being ‘dragged down’ by club despite criticism

Scottish icon Ally McCoist believes that Bruno Fernandes is being let down at Manchester United as the Red Devils continue to struggle to find form.

In a season when United have been knocked out of Europe, and the Carabao Cup and currently sit eighth in the Premier League, Fernandes has still managed six goals and five assists for his club in all competitions.

McCoist said: “I’ve watched him closely and he’s probably been their best player, but you got to take into account United haven’t been good.

“I think he’s been, dare I say it, dragged down a little bit, I just think the surroundings and everything that has gone on around him has maybe brought him down a little bit.

“I actually think he would be a top player in a top team.”

Although McCoist suggested he would play better in another team, Fernandes was crucial in Manchester United’s FA Cup victory over Wigan Athletic on Monday as the captain converted a penalty awarded in the 76^th minute.

However, the Scottish pundit criticised the 29-year-old for his controversial ‘dive’ which led to United being awarded the late penalty.

He said: “I thought the penalty was embarrassing the other night, I’ve got to say.”

Fernandes received the ball in the box and slyly dummied past Wigan midfielder Liam Shaw, only to be nicked by the Latics player’s foot, causing Fernandes to fall to the ground in pain.

Referee Anthony Taylor paused before pointing to the spot, but replays on social showed that the contact between the players was minimal, leading to outrage online.

A fan on social media platform X said: “Nice to see football is officially a non-contact sport. That’s a sickening dive from Fernandes. Plain and simple.”

However, with a lack of VAR available in the fixture, the penalty was given, and Fernandes did his job and calmly slotted the ball past Sam Tickle to seal the victory for the Red Devils.