Most passes in final third (14), most tackles (5) vs Spurs: Fans must think twice before criticising £46m phenomenal Man Utd star - view

Manchester United endured a frustrating 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday.

A clinical 13th-minute strike from James Maddison was enough to seal all three points for Spurs.

While United struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, they came alive after the break.

United created several opportunities, only to fall short with poor final passes and a lack of finishing touch.

Although the Red Devils’ fans will understandably be disappointed with the result, they should reconsider hastily placing the blame on Bruno Fernandes.

United cannot function without Fernandes

The United captain did not cover himself in glory as he lost ball possession 28 times.

Partnering with Casemiro at the base of the midfield, Fernandes frequently left his post to press forward.

This created significant space for the Brazilian, who at 32, no longer has the legs to cover such expansive areas of the pitch.

While some may criticise manager Ruben Amorim for pairing the duo together, his hands were tied due to injuries to Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer.

It was a gamble Amorim had no choice but to take.

Fernandes started to pull strings in the second half and immediately United looked threatening.

The £46 million-rated star orchestrated play like a maestro, leading the charge with an impressive 14 passes in the final third.

He should have claimed an assist when he delivered a brilliantly-weighted ball to Alejandro Garnacho, only for the young forward to blaze his shot wildly over the bar.

He triumphed in five of his six duels and topped the charts with the most tackles (5), showcasing his defensive prowess.

Fernandes gave his all as he covered up for the lack of pressing from Joshua Zirkzee as the right-sided number 10.

He looked extremely tired by the final whistle and did not deserve to end up on the losing end.

The phenomenal ace has been United’s best player for over half-a-decade and the fans must recognise it.

Stats from Transfemarkt.com & Fotmob.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .