On the latest episode of the TIFO Football Podcast for The Athletic, Seb Stafford-Bloor, Joe Devine and Alex Stewart have been talking about some of the latest goings-on in the Premier League, including a discussion of Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes and his recent performance against Southampton.
The Portuguese international was far from his best against the Saints, picking up a 6.87/10 rating for his performance in the 2-2 draw (per WhoScored). Although he has been in incredible form since the restart, those on the podcast suggested that he may have been suffering from fatigue against Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side.
Here’s what Devine had to say about the 25-year-old’s performance:
“I thought Bruno Fernandes actually looked a little tired in that game and didn’t have quite the same impact, a few wayward passes. But actually, on the whole, watching that performance, which really wasn’t that disappointing, and feeling like he was off the boil, is a pretty good indicator of the fact that he’s obviously bedded in exceptionally well.”
TIF Thoughts…
Since signing from Sporting Lisbon in the January transfer window, Fernandes has been in sensational form for Manchester United in the Premier League, contributing seven goals and seven assists in just 11 appearances, and averaging a superb 7.97 match rating (per WhoScored). His arrival has also coincided with an upturn in form for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side, perhaps reflecting just how important he has become to the Red Devils.
Was Fernandes disappointing against Southampton?
Yes
No
However, the midfielder has been a regular since the restart, so it is perhaps easy to understand why he may have looked tired in United’s most recent game against the Saints and was perhaps ‘off the boil’ as a result of this. It will be interesting to see if he features against Crystal Palace in Thursday evening’s game, and if he does, United fans will surely be hoping that he is back to his best.