Bruno Fernandes is playing through the pain barrier to help Manchester United secure a top four finish, admitting he is still feeling the effects of an injury suffered in the FA Cup semi-final. Last Sunday, the 28-year-old suffered what appeared to be an ankle injury in the first-half of the semi-final clash with Brighton at Wembley. Fernandes was able to carry on before he was finally replaced in 101th minute as United secured victory on penalties. The following day, Fernandes was pictured with a protective boot and crutches with reports suggesting he would miss the midweek clash at Tottenham only to play the full 90 minutes in London and again on Sunday against Aston Villa, where he scored the winner after 39 minutes.
The midfielder has been ever-present in Erik ten Hag’s Premier League line-up, missing one game through suspension last October having played every other available minute of top flight football. While he is still nursing the injury suffered last week, Fernandes insists he will always strive to be available. ‘I am happy to never be in a condition where I can’t play games,’ Fernandes said after the 1-0 win at Old Trafford. ‘I had a knock in the semi-final that is still hurting a little bit but I can play, I can still help the team and when the manager needs me I will be available for the team to help. It is important for me to play as much as I can but obviously I want to be in the best condition, try not to get ill, eat healthily enough to be in the best condition to play every game.’
With Harry Maguire not in the side, Fernandes has been United’s regular captain this season but faced criticism over his suitability for the role following the 7-0 defeat to Liverpool last month. Having praised his performance against Aston Villa, one that leaves United in a commanding position to secure a top four finish, Erik ten Hag fired back at his skipper’s critics. ‘He’s so tough. A couple of weeks ago there was questions about his captaincy. It’s crazy because he’s such a big leader, by example,’ ten Hag said. ‘He gives so much energy to the team besides his smartness. But also his determination, his passion and his resilience, so I think we as a team are so happy. We need such players if you want to win games, if you want to win trophies.’