MANCHESTER UNITED captain Bruno Fernandes got into an argument with referee Chris Kavanagh just moments before missing a penalty against Fulham – and fans were not happy about it.

Just as the 30-year-old stepped up to take the spot-kick at Craven Cottage, Kavanagh accidentally brushed past him while walking in another direction.

Soccer player about to take a penalty kick.
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Bruno Fernandes argued with referee Chris Kavanagh after bumping into him

Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United holding a soccer ball.
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The argument stalled the penalty taking processCredit: Getty

Bruno Fernandes' penalty kick going over the goal.
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Fernandes then blasted his attempt over the crossbarCredit: Alamy
Fernandes was left frustrated by the incident and turned around to speak to the referee.

He then picked up the ball and continued the argument, prolonging the process.

Kavanagh was forced to step in as goalkeeper Bernd Leno walked towards the spot.

The bizarre incident resulted in a baffled Fernandes taking the penalty at least 30 seconds later.

And he blasted his effort over the crossbar.

United legend Gary Neville, who was commentating on the match for Sky Sports, claimed that Kavanagh may have “unnerved” Fernandes before the penalty was taken.

Some fans of the Red Devils agreed, with one person taking to social media to write: “Im not happy about the referee running Into Bruno Fernandes there before his penalty.”

Another commented: “Referee has absolutely f***ed bruno there. Just cut him up as he’s setting himself. Ridiculous.”

While a third said: “Was the referee the reason Bruno missed his penalty? Bruno completely lost focus because of him!”

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One person wrote: “Serves Bruno right. Acting like such a baby because the ref accidentally bumped into him.”

Another added: “Bruno allowed himself to get rattled by the ref brushing past him. He should have just let it go but wanted to give out.”

While a third commented: “Referee accidentally bumps into Bruno and the penalty miss is being blamed on that?? People aren’t allowed accidents anymore lol.”

Man Utd were held to a 1-1 draw by Fulham after an own-goal from Rodrigo Muniz was cancelled out by Emile Smith Rowe in the 73rd minute.