Where does Bruno Fernandes stand among the many array of top players who’ve starred for Manchester United over time? Alan Shearer doesn’t place him among the many greats.
The Portuguese midfielder has been an integral a part of the Red Devils team since he arrived from Sporting in January 2020.
He has racked up 324 appearances in all competitions and scored 106 goals, while he’s fast climbing the all-time assists chart within the Premier League.
The 31-year-old has laid on 70 goals in the highest flight, 18th in Premier League history and with big names ahead of him and in his sights.
Only Ryan Giggs (270), Wayne Rooney (142) and David Beckham (121) have provided more assists for the Red Devils in all competitions than Fernandes (102).
What’s holding Fernandes back within the eyes of Shearer is the period in Manchester United’s history during which he’s playing.
It has not been a vintage Red Devils team at any stage of his profession in England and though he has been the star performer, it has not been enough to tug in trophies regularly.
His only silverware since moving to Old Trafford is an FA Cup and one League Cup.
‘There’s little question Man United wouldn’t be where they’re if it wasn’t for Bruno Fernandes and I feel he’s stood out in a poor team,’ Shearer told Betfair.
‘They’ve had a tricky time of late over the previous years, but I feel what would define him is the trophies he has or hasn’t won with them.’
The all-time record Premier League goal-scorer continued: ‘Once you see Man United greats, if you’re comparing him to the likes of Roy Keane, Paul Scholes and David Beckham, these guys who’ve won the treble and won trophies before that.
‘I’d be reluctant to discuss him being considered one of the Man United greats, but that’s through no fault of his own.
‘I feel he’s massively stood out this 12 months and is up for the Player of the 12 months award.’
Fernandes has emerged because the bookmakers’ favourite to be the Premier League’s PFA Player of the 12 months this season, ahead of Declan Rice, Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva.
He has scored eight goals and provided 19 assists, really flourishing since Michael Carrick took over as manager in January, as the entire team has.
The interim boss coached Fernandes when he worked under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and knew what to anticipate from him when he took the highest job.
‘I’ve known Bruno an extended time and worked with him when he was here, when he got here to the club, so it hasn’t surprised me,’ said the previous England midfielder.
‘I knew exactly what he could bring. I feel over time you form of evolve and experience helps and you possibly can definitely see that he’s grown as well in an actual positive way.
‘He’s just a giant influence, he’s had a big effect and he’s playing ever so well for the time being, so we’re delighted with that.’
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