Manchester United's dismal 4-0 defeat against Crystal Palace has sparked furious reaction from club legend Roy Keane, who launched a scathing attack on captain Bruno Fernandes' leadership and attitude.
Keane's Explosive Critique
The former United skipper didn't hold back in his assessment of Fernandes' performance and body language during Monday night's humiliation at Selhurst Park. "I think he's a talented player, but what I saw tonight... I'd grab him by the scruff of the neck and say, 'You're the captain of Manchester United,'" Keane fumed during his Sky Sports analysis.
Keane's frustration was palpable as he watched United's season hit new lows, with the team conceding four goals to a Crystal Palace side that had previously struggled for form.
Captaincy Under Fire
The Irishman questioned whether Fernandes possesses the right character to lead the Red Devils, particularly highlighting his constant complaining and negative body language. "His body language today was shocking. For a captain of Manchester United to be performing like that... it's really, really poor," Keane stated.
Keane's criticism comes at a time when United are experiencing one of their worst Premier League campaigns in recent memory, with the defeat leaving them eighth in the table and facing the possibility of missing out on European football entirely.
Defensive Shambles Exposed
The match itself was a defensive nightmare for Erik ten Hag's side, with Palace scoring four goals against United for the first time in their history. The performance highlighted the team's ongoing defensive frailties and lack of organisation.
United's injury crisis has been well-documented, but Keane made it clear that this shouldn't excuse the lack of fight and leadership shown by the team's captain and senior players.
Ten Hag's Troubles Mount
The result piles more pressure on manager Erik ten Hag, whose future at Old Trafford appears increasingly uncertain. With new part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe watching from the stands, the performance couldn't have come at a worse time for the Dutch manager.
United now face an uphill battle to salvage anything from their season, with crucial matches against Arsenal, Newcastle and Brighton still to come.
Keane's passionate outburst reflects the growing frustration among United fans and former players alike, who have watched the once-dominant club struggle for identity and consistency throughout the season.
