Bruno Fernandes has emerged as one of Erik ten Hag’s most important players and when he was missing against Sevilla last week, United looked like a different team.
Fernandes was welcomed back into the side for the dramatic FA Cup semi-final against Brighton but the Portuguese international landed awkwardly in the first half, twisting his ankle.
After receiving treatment on the pitch, Fernandes was able to play on but he did not play the 120 minutes, with Ten Hag opting to take him off during extra-time.
It was a decision that sparked debate among supporters as the game was clearly heading towards penalties and Fernandes, United’s best marksman from 12 yards, was a shoo-in to take the first spot-kick.
It has now emerged that Fernandes was brought off due to the knock he had sustained earlier in the game and there is more bad news for Ten Hag as he could now miss Thursday’s game against Tottenham Hotspur.
According to the ESPN, United’s stand-in skipper is now a doubt for the trip to London, leaving his side sweating on his fitness as the Reds chase a top-four finish in the Premier League.
As per the report, discussions were held in the United camp over taking Fernandes off immediately after he sustained the injury and then again at half-time. The player was not interested in coming off, however.
Furthermore, it’s added that Fernandes was seen limping at Wembley after the game and now, he will be assessed by the club’s medical staff on Monday.
A decision will then be taken on whether he can train with the rest of the team going into Thursday’s trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
SN’s verdict…
Losing Fernandes would undeniably be a huge blow for United and the game against Tottenham is a big one. Victory over the under-fire Londoners could almost certainly seal Champions League qualification.
If Fernandes is ruled out, it is hopefully a minor issue that only keeps him out of one game. United cannot afford to lose yet another first-team star after battling injuries for several months now.
