Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has insisted he is happy for Bruno Fernandes to continue as Manchester United captain, despite his behaviour in the loss at Liverpool.

Harry Maguire is Manchester United captain but Fernandes has been the captain for most games this season due to Maguire’s lack of game time.

Pressed on whether Fernandes will retain the armband, Ten Hag told a press conference: “Yes, definitely. He’s playing a brilliant season, he’s had a really important role in why we’re in the position where we are he’s giving energy to the team, not only running a lot at the highest intensity but the right way and right direction.

“He’s coaching players, he’s an inspiration, but no-one is perfect, everyone makes mistakes, we have to learn, he has to learn, he will because he’s intelligent. I’m happy to have Bruno Fernandes in the team and that he’s captain when Harry isn’t on the pitch.”

Fernandes was fiercely criticised by former United skippers Gary Neville and Roy Keane for his body language during the defeat at Liverpool.