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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Kadeem Simmonds

Erik ten Hag comments offer defensive insight as Man United fans learn Bruno Fernandes reality

Here are your Manchester United evening headlines on Tuesday, March 22.

Ten Hag's ideal defender

Although United are yet to appoint their next permanent manager, it's clear to see the supposed weaknesses in the first team and where they need to strengthen over the summer - regardless of who the next boss is.

With Erik ten Hag the favourite to take charge, quotes attributed to the current Ajax boss may give an indication as to what he will look for from his centre-backs if he moves to Old Trafford. Former United midfielder Daley Blind has revitalised his career back in the Netherlands and has been a key cog in the Ajax backline.

Ten Hag has hailed Blind's 'packing [progressive] passes', a quote that could suggest Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Raphael Varane will all be important fixtures in defence should Ten Hag move to Old Trafford.

READ MORE FROM TEN HAG HERE

READ MORE: Three defenders Manchester United could consider for summer transfer

Ferndandes' 2022 failings

Bruno Fernandes has almost been exempt from criticism ever since he arrived at United in January 2020. His eye for a goal and an assist, coupled with his passion on the pitch, has made him an instant fan favourite inside Old Trafford and many tipped him to lead the club to glory. However, the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the change in formation under interim boss Ralf Rangnick has seen the Portuguese playmaker slow down in his new role.

As United struggle to catch up to their rivals, both on and off the field, Fernandes looked like a player who would help the team get back to their lofty successful heights. But too often this season he has been unable to make an impact in the biggest games and has spent far too much time arguing with the referee as opposed to being a productive member of United's team.

READ MORE ABOUT FERNANDES HERE

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