Bruno Fernandes has thanked Manchester United fans for their support in what he described as “one of the hardest” moments of his career following two red cards in consecutive games.

The Red Devils captain was sent off for a challenge on James Maddison in the 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur – though his suspension was later overturned on appeal – and was dismissed for the second game running when he picked up a second booking in the 3-3 draw with Porto on Thursday.

United manager Erik ten Hag remains under intense pressure after some poor results at the start of the season, with some reports suggesting the Dutchman had the midweek clash and Sunday’s trip to Aston Villa to prove himself and save his job.

Posting on Instagram, Fernandes admitted he has been disappointed with his efforts in recent weeks and is desperate to help turn things around for his side.

He wrote: “Tough moment as a team and personally for me, one of the hardest. Almost five years at the club with ups and downs, good and bad moments.

“Personally, I have always had challenges and adversities throughout my career and something that’s never happened was that I go silent or hide myself from responsibilities in difficult moments. I know it sounds cliche and most of you United fans will be tired of it, but no one is more disappointed than myself with my own moment.

“Even through this moment, I appreciate all of you that had positive messages of belief in me and the team.”

Fernandes is widely considered one of the Premier League’s best playmakers and attacking midfielders, having started his career at Old Trafford in incredible goalscoring form. However, he is yet to strike in England’s top flight this season and has an extremely tough assignment on Sunday when he leads United to a buoyed Aston Villa fresh from Champions League glory in midweek.

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