Bruno Fernandes pulled all the strings in midfield during Manchester United’s 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday.
His performance was worthy of winning the man of the match award, drawing praise from fans, pundits and his manager.
Erik ten Hag was extremely impressed, praising the “brilliant” Fernandes, and adding that he was absolutely “the best player on the pitch.”
Deployed in a deeper role for the second consecutive game, Fernandes relished every moment. His precise passing, cut the Everton defence apart on many occasions.
So here are the key stats behind his Man of the Match display…
Bruno Fernandes’ key stats
Fernandes created six chances in the game, with two of these being big chances, from the number six position.
Fernandes found his attacking teammates regularly with brilliant balls over the top. However, Antony, Marcus Rashford and Marcel Sabitzer all failed to capitalise on their chances.
Playing in his new deeper role, Fernandes has also been great in retaining possession, boasting an 86 per cent pass completion rate.
United’s Portuguese magician is at the centre of everything in his new role. This demonstrated by the 119 touches and 102 pass attempts.
Defensively he played his part, making seven recoveries, two clearances and a block, contributing to the teams 13th clean-sheet of the season.
Fernandes also contributed in the attacking third with late runs toward the box, resulting in a few sights at goal.
It should be no coincidence that since Fernandes’ move deeper, the team performances have greatly improved.
Ten Hag seems to have found his much desired deep lying playmaker. Fernandes now has the task of replicating this performance against Sevilla in the Europa League on Thursday.
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