Bruno Fernandes shows leadership with message to Mason Mount after difficult Manchester United debut

Bruno Fernandes has sent a message of support to Mason Mount after a tricky Manchester United debut.

The England midfielder had to contend with some criticism after his first competitive outing during a 1-0 win over Wolves.

Mount endured a tough first Premier League outing for UnitedGetty

Mount started and lasted 68 minutes in a midfield trio with Fernandes and Casemiro, in a match won late on by Raphael Varane.

It was a less-than-impressive performance by Erik ten Hag’s men, though, who were fortunate to avoid a late penalty after Andre Onana wiped out Sasa Kalajdzic.

Yet despite United collecting the three points on opening day, Mount was one player who came under scrutiny from both the media and fans on social networks.

The £55million summer signing from Chelsea later posted on his Instagram account, writing: “Just getting started, thanks for your support Old Trafford!”

Fernandes let Mount know he was on the right path@masonmount

And captain Fernandes offered his support, commenting on the post: “Step by step.”

Fernandes took the armband officially from Harry Maguire during the off-season, having worn it for much of the previous campaign with the England defender way down Ten Hag’s pecking order.

His leadership qualities have previously been questioned, with predecessor Gary Neville calling the Portuguese ‘embarrassing’ for his antics during a 7-0 loss to Liverpool last season.

However, Ferndades appears to have turned over a new leaf, with his support for Mount coming after he was seen calming down Ten Hag during a pre-season rant at an official.