“Keane couldn’t lead this team” – Man Utd legend slams his former captain, sides with Bruno Fernandes | OneFootball

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole believes Roy Keane should show more appreciation for Bruno Fernandes while making a major statement.

The legendary Man Utd captain has emerged as the Portuguese’s most famous detractor in recent months. While the Irishman doesn’t doubt the playmaker’s brilliant technique, he often blasts his leadership skills.

But despite Keane’s recurring jabs, Bruno showed his true colour after leading his team to victory over Leicester City on Sunday with a goal and two assists, as he returned his predecessor’s digs with major praise.

“I have a huge respect for Roy Keane. I think he was one of the best captains in the club and an amazing player for the club. He won basically everything for this club. It’s the way he thinks. It’s the idea he has about me as a player, as a captain. I have to respect that,” said the current skipper.

For his part, Andy Cole offered an interesting take. The former England striker was part of the famous treble-winning team and thus witnessed Keane’s leadership skills first-hand. However, he believes his former captain wouldn’t have been able to lead the current crop, as his rough approach is now outdated and would have only alienated his teammates.

“Different generations. The way Roy used to lead back then, if Roy was playing now, he couldn’t lead his team,” said the retired striker during his appearance on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast (via Daily Mail).

Andy Cole thinks Roy Keane would have failed where Bruno Fernandes is succeeding

Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

Rio also revealed some wicked Keane stories that certainly traumatised some of his teammates at the time.

“I remember Michael Stewart, a young kid at the time, a nice guy, talented Scottish footballer, everyone was saying he’ll be the next one that comes through.

“I remember Roy said to him one day, ‘In a couple years, do you know where you’re gonna be? You’re gonna be a pub team player.’ He’s looking at Roy Keane, his hero probably, and Roy has just destroyed him. I saw the life draining out of his body.”

Regardless of Keane’s takes, Fernandes remains vastly popular amongst United supporters, especially now amidst his brilliant run of form.