Manchester United icon Gary Neville compared Bruno Fernandes to the likes of club legends Wayne Rooney and Eric Cantona ahead of the Red Devils' clash away to Fulham on Sunday. The Portuguese star captained the side in their final game before the World Cup in Qatar next week.
Fernandes captained the side in Harry Maguire's absence, as Neville was very complimentary of the playmaker before the game at Craven Cottage. "He’s almost been everpresent since he come to the club, consistent performer," Neville told Sky Sports.
"It’s worth looking at his career 100 games in. Captain today, the appearances over the last two or three years, he’s been one of the best performers, up there with Kevin De Bruyne for goals, assists, chances created.
"One of the very best Premier League players even though Manchester United have struggled in that period because of that you lose how good he is. You look at him in the Premier League and you put him in great company, you look at those great players in that list [Cantona, Ruud van Nistlerooy, Dwight Yorke, Rooney] he’s the only midfield player.
Gary Neville was full of praise for one Manchester United man. (Image: GETTY / Sky Sports)
"Eric Cantona, staggering numbers, Ruud van Nistelrooy one of the best goalscorers, Rooney one of England’s best ever players. But Bruno Fernandes, in a struggling team, those played in wonderful, wonderful teams.
"I think you have to say his career has been absolutely brilliant, he’s an important player and he’s been one of the best signings in the last two or three years. He has dipped off but if he can pick it up, he can be a part of a successful Manchester United team."
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Ten Hag has occasionally played Fernandes out wide this season to accommodate his midfield options, and due to several wingers including Jadon Sancho and Antony sustaining injuries in recent weeks.
However the Portugal international is set to revert to his favoured central role away to Fulham, with Marcus Rashford and Anthony Elanga named on the flanks, either side of striker Anthony Martial.
Christian Eriksen and Casemiro were named in the midfield alongside Fernandes, though the Dane has played as the number ten in games when Fernandes is shifted out wide, while Donny van de Beek and Rashford have also played centrally at times this season.