Bruno Fernandes is continuing to shine for his nation after he helped Portugal to yet another victory in their bid to qualify for next year’s European Championship.
Fernandes is one of the first names on the teamsheet under Roberto Martinez and the midfielder is certainly repaying the manager’s trust in him as he continues to deliver near-on each time he pulls on the historic jersey.
The former Sporting captain was named captain by Erik ten Hag over the summer, with the Dutchman opting to remove Harry Maguire from the post after an underwhelming first campaign under the boss.
Fernandes has experienced a mixed start to the season at the club level but for Portugal, he has, undeniably, been one of their best players and that trend was extended earlier this week when he starred in their 3-2 win over Slovakia.
Fernandes assisted Goncalo Ramos’ opening goal and did the same for Cristiano Ronaldo’s second of the night, which proved to be the winning strike.
A closer look at Fernandes’ performances in the Euro 2024 qualifiers now show how pivotal he has been to Portugal’s campaign after they secured a seventh win from as many games.
Bruno Fernandes in Euro 2024 qualifying:
◉ Most chances created (29)
◉ Most goals + assists (11)
◉ Most big chances created (9)
◉ Most assists (7)Magnifico. 🪄 pic.twitter.com/0ixp54pSg4
— Squawka (@Squawka) October 13, 2023
According to the statistical website Squawka, as seen above, Fernandes has been the most creative player in the tournament so far and he also tops the list of combined goals and assists.
On top of creating 29 chances for his team-mates, he has also created the most big chances (9). His clever solutions in the final third are also being converted, with the midfielder racking up seven assists so far, also the most in the qualifiers.
Portugal have already qualified for next summer’s tournament and that could mean that Fernandes is given a highly-needed rest in some of the upcoming fixtures. At club level, he remains a highly influential player and is rarely rested by Ten Hag.
