Manchester United icon Roy Keane has launched a blistering verbal assault on defender Luke Shaw and captain Bruno Fernandes following his former club's humiliating 3-0 defeat in the Manchester derby.
The Sky Sports pundit, never one to mince his words, tore into Shaw's performance after the England international was substituted at half-time with his side already two goals down against a dominant Manchester City.
'Gave Up and Threw the Towel In' - Keane's Shaw Verdict
Keane did not hold back in his criticism of the left-back's first-half display, accusing him of quitting during the crucial derby clash at Old Trafford.
'I'm looking at Shaw today, I know he's coming back from injury, but I think he gave up,' Keane fumed during his post-match analysis. 'He gave up. He was awful. I'm looking at his body language, walking off... I'd be ashamed of myself if I put a performance in like that.'
The former United captain's criticism extended beyond Shaw's technical performance to question the defender's mentality and commitment when the game turned against his team.
Fernandes Captaincy Under Fire
Keane also turned his attention to current skipper Bruno Fernandes, whose leadership qualities he has frequently questioned in the past. The Portuguese midfielder's petulant reactions and constant complaints to officials drew particular ire from the straight-talking Irishman.
'We've discussed Fernandes many times before. His whinging, his moaning,' Keane stated. 'I certainly wouldn't want him as my captain. He's a talented player, but his body language and attitude? Not for me.'
The criticism comes at a difficult time for United, who sit eighth in the Premier League table after their worst start to a season in decades.
A Dark Day at Old Trafford
The comprehensive defeat saw Erling Haaland score twice before setting up Phil Foden for City's third, highlighting the growing gulf between the two Manchester clubs. While City controlled the game with their typical precision, United appeared disjointed and lacking in both ideas and fight.
Keane's analysis pinpointed what many United fans fear most: a concerning lack of character and leadership within the squad. His comments about players 'giving up' will resonate painfully with a fanbase accustomed to seeing never-say-die attitudes from legends like Keane himself.
With pressure mounting on manager Erik ten Hag and the team's form showing little sign of improvement, Keane's harsh words may signal deeper problems at Old Trafford that go beyond one disappointing result.
