Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has weighed in on manager Ruben Amorim’s recent comments about young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and captain Bruno Fernandes.

Following United’s 1-1 draw with Fulham, Amorim suggested that Mainoo would have to compete directly with Fernandes for a place in the starting XI.

The 20-year-old midfielder has not featured in the Premier League this season, spending the full 90 minutes on the bench against both Arsenal and Fulham. He currently sits behind Fernandes, Casemiro, Mason Mount, and Manuel Ugarte in Amorim’s midfield pecking order.

Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former England defender admitted that Mainoo faces an almost impossible task if he is expected to dislodge the United skipper.

“If Mainoo has to dislodge the captain [to get into the starting XI], he is fighting a losing battle, isn’t he? Bruno Fernandes has been the talisman for this team for the last three or four years,” Ferdinand said.

He added:

“How is Mainoo going to displace someone like him? It’s going to be nearly impossible. Bruno is the guy they look to when they need a goal, a moment, or a chance.”

For now, Mainoo’s path into the first team looks blocked by the influence and consistency of Fernandes, leaving the youngster with a tough challenge ahead.