Erik ten Hag discusses his choice to captain Bruno Fernandes. »

• Erik ten Hag reveals decision over Bruno Fernandes captaincy.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has resisted requests to drop Bruno Fernandes from his team of captains.

The Portugal midfielder’s terrible play in Sunday’s 7-0 thrashing at the hands of Liverpool was criticized by commentators and fans, and his bad behaviour was also questioned.

There have been calls in the media for Fernandes to be removed from his role as United’s vice-captain, and reports have suggested that his teammates are hesitant to give him the armband permanently in the event that captain Harry Maguire leaves.

We recently revealed that the defender is one of several players the team has informed can leave this summer.

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Ten Hag was questioned if Fernandes was still one of his captains prior to United’s opening leg against Real Betis in the Europa League round of 16 at home.

“Yes, definitely,” Ten Hag replied. “I think he’s playing a brilliant season, he’s played an important role in the position that we are.

“He’s giving energy to the team, running a lot with intensity, in the right way. He’s pointing and coaching players, he’s an inspiration for the whole team.

“No one is perfect, everyone makes mistakes. I’m really happy to have Bruno Fernandes in my team and I’m happy with him as our captain with Harry not on the pitch.”

Fernandes has already featured 40 times for United this season, scoring seven goals and assisting a further 11.