Bruno Fernandes may be heading for a difficult afternoon at Anfield this weekend, as concerns grow over his form and his role under manager Ruben Amorim. The Manchester United captain has played more minutes than any other player since Amorim took charge, but has struggled when deployed in a deeper midfield position.
Fernandes appeared jaded during Portugal's 2-2 World Cup qualifier draw with Hungary, where he received a yellow card earning a one-game suspension and was substituted before Hungary's late equaliser. The goal was scored by Dominik Szoboszlai, who will face Fernandes again on Sunday.
Szoboszlai is comfortable in the role given to him by his club manager, something Fernandes currently lacks. The Portuguese playmaker has been found wanting when asked to play as a holding midfielder, a role that does not suit his attacking instincts.
Sending Fernandes into battle at Anfield in a defensive midfield position would be akin to 'sending a lamb to the slaughter,' according to the analysis. Even if Amorim sets up to win or draw, neither outcome is likely if Fernandes is deployed close to his own defence.
The article suggests Fernandes should be placed in a front three alongside Mason Mount and Bryan Mbeumo, playing to his strengths. Failure to do so could result in a heavy defeat for United at their bitter rivals' ground, with serious consequences for Amorim's immediate future.
