Bruno Fernandes calls out seven Man Utd stars ahead of new season, he's taking captaincy seriously

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes says he and seven team-mates - including Harry Maguire - all have a 'point to prove' ahead of the new Premier League season.

United finished third in the league last season and lifted the Carabao Cup, as well as reaching the final of the FA Cup.

But their away record, particularly against top teams, was a major concern, with the 7-0 thrashing by Liverpool the worst of some heavy defeats.

That showed that Erik ten Hag's side still have a way to go before they are challenging for the title.

But the Dutchman has tried to address key issues this summer, bringing in Mason Mount from Chelsea to bolster the midfield and Andre Onana from Inter Milan as a more modern number one goalkeeper.

Pre-season results so far have been mixed, though performances have been encouraging.

Ten Hag's side defeated Arsenal 2-0 in the United States on Saturday, before falling to Real Madrid by the same scoreline on Wednesday night.

Fernandes has been captain for both games when on the pitch, having been appointed to the role as the replacement for Harry Maguire earlier in July.

And he had a pointed message to some of his United team-mates when speaking prior to the Real clash.

Fernandes calls out Man Utd stars

The Portuguese midfielder was asked about whether there is any pressure on Mount following his £55 million move.

And Fernandes was in no doubt as to the answer to that question.

He explained (quotes via Daily Mirror): "He has a point to prove, like everyone else.

"I have a point to prove. So does Licha [Martinez], Casemiro, Rapha [Varane], Andre [Onana], Harry [Maguire], Victor [Lindelof].

"It's not about him [Mount]. He doesn't have to prove anything more than anyone else."

On Mount specifically, Fernandes added: "He has goals and assists in him. He can create chances, so we are expecting a lot from him. But he's aware of that.

"He's at a big club and he knows the expectations on him will be big."

United are next in pre-season action on Monday, when they take on Borussia Dortmund at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas before returning home to prepare for the new campaign.

Topics: Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United, Premier League, Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, Real Madrid

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.