- Bruno Fernandes stars for Manchester United in ‘vital’ Chelsea win
- United captain urges squad to focus
- Reds one step closer to Champions League qualification
On a night where Manchester United were missing four senior centre-backs, calmer heads prevailed in their 1-0 win over Chelsea.
Going to Stamford Bridge was not going to be an easy trip, especially after the week started off with a 1-0 loss to Leeds United. It was not the prettiest, but the Reds bounced back with a clean sheet and a solid display.
One of the standout performers was captain Bruno Fernandes.
As described by co-commentator Ally McCoist, a ‘quality’ pass to Matheus Cunha helped United score the winning goal in the first half. Fernandes was nominated the Player of the Match by the Scotsman on TNT Sport’s coverage too, capping off a great night.
‘Amazing Feeling’ After Chelsea Win
Speaking after the game on TNT Sports, Fernandes reflected on the rollercoaster week for the club. He said: ”It’s an amazing feeling for us, we had to bounce back. It’s not just about Leeds, that was two games we didn’t win. So we knew that we had to make a great performance today because Chelsea is a very good side.”
The Red Devils now move ten points clear of the Blues, who still have tough games against Brighton and Liverpool to play. The result bodes well for Michael Carrick’s side, who may call this victory their most important one under him.
The United captain continued: “It was very important for us, our aim is to get close to top four, they are the closest one to top five, it’s perfect for us and that’s what we need.
“I feel three points closer, now we have another game we have to win. We know we need points to get that palace secured and we’re going to be doing everything possible.”
Record Breaking Season Looms for Fernandes
The 31-year-old was looking to add to his own personal record of 17 league assists as well. He was successful in doing so, moving one assist closer to matching the all-time Premier League record. With five games left to go, the record could realistically be broken.
However, Fernandes played it down, instead focusing on team efforts. He said: “I say every time that I want to do better than the season before. I want to improve my game overall. Not assists, not goals, but overall, everything, and I need to improve every week because I want to become a better player and end my career as the best as possible.”
Whatever direction the club goes in this summer, there is no bigger personification of the ‘United way’ than Bruno Fernandes. In a moment that should have belonged to him, he instead diverted praise towards his teammates Ayden Heaven, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo in particular.
He continued: “Great performance, everyone. Ayden, amazing again, young kid, the guys in front put a shift in, Cas and Kobbie today were amazing, and vital for us to get the win today.”
Those are the statements that have the makings of a true captain. If United do get back to Europe’s elite competition, it will be because their captain refused to let his teammates sit complacently.
