Bruno Fernandes was Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s fourth signing at Manchester United and that transfer immediately proved to be transformational for the Reds.
Fernandes hit the ground running straight away and now, three years later, he remains one of United’s most important players and that was confirmed further when he signed a new long-term deal last year.
Despite his status as vice-captain, Fernandes often wears the armband as skipper Harry Maguire has dropped down the pecking order under Erik ten Hag.
Fernandes has enjoyed a number of memorable outings in Red but ahead of this week’s crucial double-header against Leeds, he has named one of his performances against United’s rivals as his standout moment.
“My standout moment is probably the hat-trick against Leeds,” Fernandes is quoted as saying by the official Manchester United website.
“That was a really good moment, on the opening day of the Premier League for us in that [2021/22] season.
“It was an amazing atmosphere, with the first time back as a full stadium. It was amazing the atmosphere there and I think that was a pretty good moment for me.
“I have some [other] goals I would like to show my son. I like the one against Newcastle at home, outside of the box: I think that was a pretty good goal. I have many others that I like. I could show him the many penalties I have scored too.
“I could show him any goal because I don’t think he understands what is a good goal or a bad goal yet!”
SN’s verdict…
United were enduring one of their most challenging spells in the club’s modern history just before Fernandes signed and the Portugal international steadied the ship under Solskjaer.
Since then, he has been a mainstay under two other managers and his commitment to the cause has never been questioned. Now, after spending three years at Old Trafford and tying himself down to a long-term contract, he will be hoping to mark his spell at the club with some trophies.
As things stand, United are looking good value for that and have the chance to end their six-year wait for silverware later this month as they face Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final.
