Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United was named the most hardworking player in the Premier League in 2023 when it was revealed that the Portuguese midfielder covered the most distance – 451.8km.

The Red Devils captain has been continually chastised by Roy Keane, with the former Manchester United great declaring in October that he is unqualified to represent the team following the defeat to Manchester City.

The numbers don’t lie, and certainly the hardest worker in the land is qualified to manage the Old Trafford club, isn’t he?

Fernandes was also the most creative player in the English Premier League last season, creating the most chances (133) and the most chances from open play (100).

Man United boss Erik ten Hag understood exactly what he was doing when he appointed the 29-year-old as captain in place of Harry Maguire.

His teammates clearly supported his decision, and regardless of what Keane and others think, Fernandes has what it takes to lead the Red Devils.

It is not his fault that his teammates are not converting the opportunities he creates, and it is past time for people to stop using him as a scapegoat whenever things do not go as planned.

Fernandes has nine big opportunities and 18 through balls this season, trailing only West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta (19).

In 19 league games, he has three goals and three assists, and there is little doubt that he would be doing better if he had better and more hungry colleagues.

Many have questioned his poor body language on the field when things aren’t going well, but no one can ever question his willingness to work his socks off.