What is wrong with Bruno Fernandes?

A day before Manchester United's trip to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, the club issued a statement on captain Bruno Fernandes. It spoke of an "injury niggle" but stressed there was "nothing to worry about". His performance on the night suggested otherwise.

Bruno Fernandes has suffered a worrying dip in form as Manchester United have struggled for momentum this season - time for Michael Carrick to drop his captain? Watch Leeds vs Man Utd live on Sky Sports on Super Sunday from 1pm; kick-off 2pm

Perhaps the reference to an injury was meant to mediate the criticism that has begun to engulf last year's Premier League player of the season. His form has become an unexpected problem for Michael Carrick, a manifestation of where Man Utd stand more broadly.

So often United's saviour, Fernandes is currently his side's scourge, the issue being that if he is not contributing offensively, he offers virtually nothing else. Clearly it is not the 32-year-old's role or repertoire to be combative against the ball. But United's fragility means they cannot afford to carry passengers either.

Source: Sky Sports