Pranav Nair
Manchester United manager Solskjaer defends his decision to leave out Bruno Fernandes vs Leicester
According to The Metro, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer does not regret dropping Bruno Fernandes to the bench for the FA Cup quarter-final clash against Leicester City.
The 26-year-old is the club’s top-scorer this season and has largely been our go-to man when needed. His absence was visible as Donny van de Beek struggled to impose himself against a determined Foxes side.
The Dutchman was tidy enough but wasn’t able to make the difference we have become accustomed to seeing Fernandes make. The Portuguese star eventually replaced him in the 64th minute.
“He’s also a human being, he’s played a game every three or four days really.”
Fernandes did make a difference after coming on and almost scored as well. However, it was not his day and a Kelechi Iheanacho header put the game beyond salvation.
It is debatable whether Fernandes’ presence from the start could have made a difference. Evidence from the past would however suggest that to be the case.
Solskjaer however believes Fernandes is being pushed to the limit and was due a rest. Given his exertions in recent months, it is a reasonable explanation.
“Bruno has played very, very much football. He broke all his records on Thursday night [at the San Siro] physically statistically, and the boy is not inhuman
Key absentees
The Norwegian is aware that Fernandes would like to play every game. However, some decisions have to be made and we have to say he has made the right call.
“I know Bruno wants to play but sometimes you make decisions for the benefit of both the team and him.”
With our second top-scorer Marcus Rashford also missing, the attack needed to step up and make themselves count. Unfortunately, they couldn’t and the team as a whole have had to pay a price for it.
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While Solskjaer did have his reasons, the situation also brings to light the incredible overdependence we appear to have on Fernandes. The fact that the team looked more dangerous once he was on the field is testament to that.
It is a challenge that Solskjaer will meet going forward.
