Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes' claims to become permanent captain are under a cloud amid internal skepticism over his suitability for the role.
The Portugal international has been heavily criticised for his latest petulant showing in Sunday's humiliating 7-0 loss at Liverpool, during which there were a series of instances that have portrayed the 28-year-old in a negative light.
But concerns over whether he is the right man to lead the Erik ten Hag era in the long-term were apparent well before the weekend embarrassment on Merseyside.
Fernandes has led the team as a result of the marginalisation of current club captain Harry Maguire, who has spent the majority of the season on the bench.