Ex-refs chief drops Bruno Fernandes 'red card' verdict after Leeds vs Man United scenes

Bruno Fernandes could have easily been shown a red card during Manchester United's 1-1 draw against Leeds United.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that his actions at Elland Road were hugely disrespectful.

After just 17 minutes on Sunday, 16 October, Man United's captain found himself in the referee's notebook for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic.

Darren England allowed play to go on, with Daniel Farke's side still in possession, before coming back to caution the 32-year-old midfielder.

During that time, Fernandes was seen going ballistic at the referee, waving and gesturing instead of getting back involved with his defending teammates.

Home fans at Elland Road instantly asked the question of whether he could have been given his marching orders, and that has now been answered.

Bruno Fernandes could have been sent off

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett stated that Fernandes could have definitely been shown a red card, but insisted that England handled the situation well.

"The answer to that is yes [it could have been red]. When the referee applies advantage, which Darren England did here, it's because there's a chance for the opposition," he said.

"And I think he played a really good advantage; in allowing the play to go, I think it was a good piece of refereeing. Coming back and cautioning Fernandes was the correct course of action.

"Was that dissent visually available to him? Did Darren England see it? Because he can only act on what he sees and he's probably asking that player to calm down.

"But if you approach me waving your arms and hands and having a go at me, I'm going to give you a yellow card. Approach me in the right manner. I'll deal with you in the right manner."

Michael Carrick told to act with Man United captain

Michael Carrick is now being urged to step in with Fernandes, who continues to press Premier League officials far too hard.

"I think Manchester United's manager should have words with this player, who's not for the first time displayed dissent against match officials," Hackett said.

"He needs some operational advice from his boss. He thinks he can do that because he's captain, but he cannot. He has no right to do that."

Many have questioned if Fernandes is the right man to lead the Red Devils forward, and this incident will only bring more questions.