Aheed Abrar
Bruno Fernandes hits back at critics who say he does not do enough for Manchester United
Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has hit back at critics who claim he does not contribute enough to the Red Devils’ play. The Portugal international feels he is amongst the best when it comes to his work rate.
After signing in January 2020, the midfielder initially regularly helped the Old Trafford side find the back of the net. However, Fernandes has struggled to score or assist a lot in the 2022/23 campaign. The 28-year-old has failed to fulfil the expectations fans have of him.
Speaking to the media via Manchester Evening News, Fernandes expressed his unhappiness at those who have been criticising him.
“If you play as a number ten you will have a lot of last balls and sometimes it is a risky pass.
“Some people were talking about how ‘he doesn’t run, he doesn’t cover the pitch’ – I would like them to see my stats on running.
“I am normally at least in the top three of those who run the most. The one that has the most sprints, the most recoveries but they do not find that stat because I am not scoring goals.”
For a year and a half after signing for United, Fernandes was one of our most influential players. The Portuguese created as well as scored a huge chunk of goals for the Red Devils.
However, since the 2021/22 campaign, the 28-year-old has failed to hit similar heights. He has often cut a frustrating figure on the pitch, which fans have not liked.
With the arrival of Erik ten Hag, Fernandes has retained his prominence in the starting lineup. He has been handed the captain’s armband in the absence of Harry Maguire. However, the Portugal international’s numbers haven’t been impressive this season.
In the 2022/23 campaign, the 28-year-old has featured in all of United’s 13 games so far. He has scored just one goal and provided two assists.
With the arrival of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, the Red Devils have evidently strengthened their squad. However, in certain games, the Old Trafford side have seemingly lacked control in the middle of the park.
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While Fernandes is still one of the best players in the squad, supporters feel the Portuguese can do better. Hopefully, the 28-year-old will be able to find his old form back once again and be a reliable talisman for us.
