United return to action this weekend with a League trip to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as they track down Champions League football under interim boss Michael Carrick.
Fernandes, who is the glue that holds the side together, will aim to lead the side once more after a 2-1 blow against Leeds United on Monday night.
The Portuguese captain has become pivotal for the side who often lack creativity in midfield and a voice in midfield without him.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Fernandes admitted that his leadership wasn’t always as strong, and he often argued with former coach Van der Gaag in training over his lack of calls on the pitch.
"I had a lot of fights with him about that. People already understood that, it’s not in a mean way, I just want to win. If I don’t put that into training, if I’m not that guy, the other ones will probably drop a bit the intensity.
"I know certain players, they look at me and need to see me alive to understand that I’m in the game. Sometimes I need to be that guy that puts the energy, that shouts, that does things for the other ones to become better because I can do that and still focus."
The 31-year-old’s current contract expires next summer and although his club retains the option to extend that deal by a further 12 months. Fernandes, despite being the leader in the side, could see a move away in the coming months even if United secure European football.