Chris Sutton has claimed Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes wouldn't get in Man City's team.

Fernandes has been a shining light for the Red Devils since arriving at Old Trafford from Sporting Lisbon in 2020, scoring 71 goals and adding 62 assists in 220 matches. 

The 29-year-old Portugal international was appointed as captain last summer, but his attitude and demeanour during games has been criticised on occasions.

Nevertheless, he has enjoyed another productive campaign on the pitch, racking up 35 appearances and providing 15 goal contributions, amid an otherwise chaotic season for Erik ten Hag's side, who face rivals City this Sunday.

But, former Premier League winner Sutton - when speaking on Mail Sport's It's All Kicking Off podcast alongside co-host and football editor Ian Ladyman - felt despite his immense talent, Fernandes wouldn't get in Pep Guardiola's first XI.

Chris Sutton has claimed Man United star Bruno Fernandes wouldn't get in Man City's team

'He's got a bit about him hasn't he?,' Sutton said. '(But) no (he wouldn't get in Man City's team). Who would?

'You think of the Manchester City options in midfield. De Bruyne, Rodri, Silva, Foden. I don't think Bruno is better than any of those.'

Ladyman then responded by backing Fernandes' qualities as he said: 'He would get on the bench though wouldn't he?

'Because you probably couldn't say many Man United players would get anywhere near the Man City team. 

'I think he would. He's a really clever player though and he's a lovely passer.'

Sutton replied: 'Yeah, I'm not disputing that but given a straight pick with the four players I've mentioned?

'I'm not trying to dig Bruno out for that, but Manchester City, they are absolutely elite. 

'Bruno is an excellent footballer. You've made some really good points about him, but I don't think he'd get into that Manchester City midfield ahead of the players I've mentioned.'

Despite the apparent snub of Fernandes, both Sutton and Ladyman praised the midfielder for his performances and application so far this season.

Ladyman added: 'At a time when there have been question marks over the commitment of United's players, you can't question Fernandes from that point of view. Where would United actually be without him?'

Sutton did go onto question Fernandes' position as United captain, but echoed his co-host's praise.

He said: 'The stuff you say about him being committed, a lot of players when they have the slightest injury use that as an excuse to pull out and fair play for Bruno for getting on with it.

'He doesn't shirk responsibility and I suppose that's a big thing but I don't think we should be getting too excited about that. I think that that's what you'd expect from most players.'