Bruno Fernandes earned huge admiration after he proved his monster mentality for Manchester United in the Sheffield United clash at Old Trafford on Wednesday.
Manchester United returned to Premier League action during the midweek and fought back to secure all three points against Sheffield United at home.
Jayden Bogle opened the scoring in the first half for Sheffield United before Harry Maguire produced an equaliser for the Red Devils before half-time.
Chris Wilder’s men restored their advantage only five minutes into the second half through Ben Brereton Diaz before Bruno Fernandes came to United’s rescue.
Fernandes pulled United back into the contest by scoring in the 61st minute before completing his brace in the 81st minute from the spot-kick.
Rasmus Hojlund then broke his goalscoring drought and scored United’s fourth of the contest late in the second half, with the Red Devils sealing all three points.
Fernandes has come under criticism this season over his form and consistency at times, along with his antics on the pitch as club captain.
However, the 29-year-old United midfielder remains a crucial influence in Erik ten Hag’s first-team squad and proved as much with his recent mentality.
Fernandes makes impression on Man Utd
United manager Erik ten Hag had admitted that Bruno Fernandes was a potential doubt for the 4-2 win over Sheffield United at Old Trafford.
Despite Ten Hag’s initial concerns, Fernandes was included in the United starting XI and the Red Devils had a significant impact in the Premier League contest.
However, it has now been revealed that the Portugal international was far from 100 per cent and was even carrying an injury in the Sheffield United match.
Fernandes had injured his hand after a fall in United’s hard-fought penalty shootout win over Coventry City at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-finals last weekend.
According to The Daily Telegraph, the Portugal and United midfielder had ‘broke his right hand’ during the Coventry City tie and still played against Sheffield United.
It has been added that Fernandes has been ‘well received’ within United for his continued commitment after he played with ‘heavy strapping on his right hand.’
“The gesture was well received within the club, where he is viewed as a resilient character and inspirational leader,” reads the report.
“Fernandes played with heavy strapping on his right hand and it was noticeable that he was trying to keep his hand away from his teammates during the celebrations for the final goal to protect it from further damage.”
Ten Hag’s praise for Man Utd star Fernandes
Speaking after the midweek win, Ten Hag showed Fernandes with praise and was “pleased” with his performance and his “attitude” for United at Old Trafford.
“He’s in very good form,” he said.
“I think when we put him in the right position, he finds the right spots.
“When he’s in that position, he makes the right decisions. He can create a lot, score a goal, make assists and key actions. So, we’re very happy with his performance.
“He shows his leadership. But also with his energy, in his transition both ways, it’s very important.
“He tries to encourage the team. He’s doing very well and we’re very pleased with his performance and with his attitude.”