Bruno Fernandes 'raged' at Rashford after Man Utd defeat

Suraj Radia

• Updated: 3 Apr 2023 20:32 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United stars could not hide their frustration after their dismal 2-0 loss to Newcastle, which could see Erik ten Hag’s side fall outside the Champions League places.

The Red Devils were comfortably second best against Newcastle, who leapfrogged Ten Hag’s side into third place on goal difference, and Tottenham will also go above them if they avoid defeat against Everton on Monday.

United captain Bruno Fernandes was seen ordering his teammates to applaud the travelling away fans after the full-time whistle at St James’ Park after they attempted to make a quick exit.

BOTTLE: United in danger of missing out on Champions League

The Manchester Evening News report that Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Lisandro Martinez were trudging towards the tunnel before being instructed by Fernandes and assistant coach Steve McClaren to go and acknowledge the away end.

Martinez also showed his disapproval of Ten Hag’s decision to substitute him during the game, while Diogo Dalot and Antony were also seen arguing during the defeat as United succumbed to third Premier League game without a win.

United face Brentford on Wednesday at Old Trafford, the side which humiliated them in the second game of the season with a 4-0 defeat.

United declining at both ends of the pitch

Ten Hag’s side have just one point from their last three league games, conceding nine goals and scoring none in reply, while their opponents have produced a better xG in all those games, totalling 5.28 compared to United’s 2.29.

While United are still narrowly clinging onto a top four place, the context of their season has taking a significant blow since the 7-0 loss to rivals Liverpool last month.

FAULT?: Is Ten Hag to blame for Weghorst struggles?

United are still in the Europa League and FA Cup, meaning they can still realistically finish with three trophies this season following their recent Carabao Cup success.

But the goals have dried up, with the previously prolific Rashford scoring just three goals in his last nine games, while Wout Weghorst has yet to net his first Premier League strike for United.

Ten Hag’s men also have the joint second-worst defence in the league in the last six games and the United boss will need to lift his side’s spirits in order to ensure their season does not fizzle out into disappointment.