Lengthy Bruno Fernandes suspension called for after ‘serious offence’ during Liverpool v Man Utd

Bruno Fernandes should be handed a five-game ban, according to a Referee’s charity.

Fernandes made the headlines for all the wrong reasons at Anfield as Manchester United fell to an embarrassing 7-0 defeat. The Portugal international cut a frustrated figure throughout, and he was later called out for dodging challenges and not giving his all once the game had clearly escaped United.

But his poor leadership wasn’t the only problem. Fernandes also appeared to shove - albeit gently shove - the assistant official after getting into a tangle with Trent Alexander-Arnold on the sideline. The official seemed to grab Fernandes’ arm to pull him away, and when the Portuguese walked past the official, who had turned back around, he lightly shoved him in the back.

The incident has caused outrage among some, with many calling for suspensions, and chief executive of Ref Support UK, Martin Cassidy, is one of those who believes a lengthy ban is in order.

“I think he’s got to be looking at at least a five-game ban,” Cassidy told PA News Agency. “To get in contact with a match official is a serious offence and should be treated such way. I think that would be absolutely appropriate.

“There’s got to be a strong message here that this kind of behaviour is not acceptable at any level at all, and I hope the Football Association make that clear. I think the message here that the FA needs to send out is one that continues the good work they’re doing currently in regards to protecting match officials, with the bodycam trial.”

Cassidy added: “Fernandes to me is typical of what seems to be happening in the game, this entitlement behaviour, you can just do what you want.

“His position as captain I think is untenable with his behaviours, and I think if he thinks it’s appropriate for the captain of such an illustrious club as Manchester United to behave in such a manner, then the game’s in a terrible state.”