Watch: Bruno Fernandes refuses to return ball in hilarious sh*thousery

Bruno Fernandes was central to Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Liverpool on Monday evening and got under the skin of the opposition by refusing to return the ball following Mohamed Salah’s second-half goal. 

United came into the match on the back of two harrowing defeats against Brighton and Brentford but tore into Liverpool from the off and deservedly led through strikes from Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford.

Erik ten Hag’s side were much improved from their recent displays and Fernandes was the man who made United’s midfield tick.

The Portugal international enjoyed 60 touches, made 14 final third passes, won five duels on the ground and created one big chance for his team-mate. It was a return to the 2020-21 version of Fernandes who was widely considered one of the Premier League’s best players.

But the 27-year-old was central to many of the game’s most dramatic moments. New signing Lisandro Martinez saved him from scoring a comical own-goal in the first half and Fernandes riled both Salah and Roberto Firmino with his actions after Liverpool’s goal.

After Salah had halved the deficit in the game’s final 10 minutes, Fernandes ran into the net and grabbed the ball to prevent Liverpool from taking a quick kick-off.

Tucking the ball into his chest and keeping his head down, Fernandes refused to yield despite Salah’s protests and a tussle ensued. The United midfielder claimed his opponent had whacked him in the face but referee Michael Oliver told both players to grow up and get on with things.

Fernandes’ delaying tactics paid off; United held on to claim their first Premier League points of the season and give Ten Hag his maiden victory as the club’s manager.

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