Manchester United’s Anthony Martial has revealed a conversation he had with Bruno Fernandes before the midfielder departed for the World Cup.
The pair are likely to be starting consistent matches together for the Red Devils in the coming weeks, with Martial returning to full fitness for the first time all season. Next up is a home clash with Nottingham Forest tomorrow evening – United’s first Premier League match since November 13.
The Frenchman has suffered from three separate injuries since August but has looked outstanding in his cameos on the pitch; contributing four goals and two assists in 354 minutes of action.
Fernandes assisted his most recent goal against Aston Villa in the third round of the Carabao Cup when United saw out a 4-2 win at Old Trafford.
Martial’s most prolific season in red was in the 2019/2020 campaign when he scored 23 goals and racked up 12 assists. The Portugal midfielder also enjoyed an exceptional season for United despite joining the club in the January transfer window, scoring 12 and setting up a further eight.
Martial on his connection with Fernandes
Martial told MUTV: “We always had that connection between us and we both just have to keep working to improve it. Well, that [assists] is something we always talk about. As he left to take part in the World Cup, I was telling him to make sure that he comes home in good shape. And he would say, of course, lots of assists are coming your way. That’s one of the things about sport, that chat.
“It’s very important to have good connections on the pitch, you always want to know where your team-mate is and where he’s going to run into space. For example, he [Bruno] knows very well that I might go to take the ball at someone’s feet, and he will run deep. It’s that kind of little connection that helps you get to know the playing style of your partner. One to evolve and, two, to help the team improve.”
