Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has reaffirmed his faith in captain Bruno Fernandes, insisting the Portuguese midfielder will remain the club’s primary penalty taker despite two high-profile misses already this season. The declaration comes ahead of United’s crucial clash with Liverpool, where spot-kick opportunities could prove decisive.

Fernandes, who has historically been one of the Premier League’s most reliable players from the spot, missed penalties against Fulham and Brentford in recent weeks. The latest failure, saved by Brentford’s Caoimhin Kelleher, came at a critical moment with United trailing a miss that contributed to their eventual 3-1 defeat and intensified scrutiny on the player.

Amorim, however, remains unwavering in his support. “He’s the main taker. He scores a lot of goals,” the United boss said during a pre-match press conference. “If we need, we can change. But I’m fully confident that Bruno will sort that out.” The coach highlighted Fernandes’ impressive overall record, noting just eight misses from 70 penalties in his career.

The manager further explained that Fernandes has been working diligently in training to adjust his technique and remain unpredictable to goalkeepers. Amorim acknowledged the pressure his captain is under but stressed his leadership qualities and mental resilience. “He’s trying to understand that people are watching the way he scores. He will be ready,” Amorim said.

Fernandes did successfully convert from 12 yards against Burnley in August, a moment Amorim said he didn’t even watch, trusting his player’s nerve. Despite missing his last attempt, Amorim believes Fernandes won't falter twice in a row and could be pivotal in any penalty situation at Anfield this Sunday.

United fans remain divided on the issue, with some calling for a change in taker, especially with other confident finishers like Rasmus Højlund and Marcus Rashford available. However, Amorim’s public backing signals no immediate shake up to the hierarchy a vote of confidence that now places the pressure squarely on Fernandes to deliver when it matters most.