Bruno Fernandes endured a difficult start to the season, featuring among several Manchester United players who performed well below their usual standards in a shock 2-0 defeat at Hull City.
His fortunes changed significantly on Tuesday, when Fernandes was named the PFA Players’ Player of the Year for his outstanding contribution to United’s return to the Champions League after a two-year absence. The midfielder also set a Premier League record with 21 assists last season.
Before United’s match against Ipswich, Fernandes walked onto the pitch alongside the sons of PC Matthew Blades, who was tragically killed in a recent head-on collision on the A66 near Middlesbrough.
Fernandes had little influence during the early stages of the game as the home side fell behind to Gary O’Neil’s team. However, he made the most of his opportunities when they arrived.
The 31-year-old first produced a powerful finish to equalise after Marcelino Nunez slipped under no pressure, allowing Matheus Cunha a clear run at the Ipswich goal and the chance to set up his captain.
Fernandes then held his nerve to convert a penalty in front of the Stretford End and put United 3-1 ahead after an hour. Given that he had missed two penalties during pre-season, the spot-kick carried significant personal pressure.
Seven minutes later, Fernandes completed his third hat-trick for United. His goals might all have been overshadowed, however, if he had found the net with an audacious 55-yard effort immediately after Ipswich lost possession following the restart.
Goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen was forced to backpedal rapidly and was relieved to see the ball land on top of his net rather than in it.
“He means a lot,” said Carrick, when asked to sum up Fernandes’ contribution.
“I mean, he’s the captain. He’s been here for a good number of years now and experienced a whole load of different emotions.
“Times like today, when you’re looking towards certain players to give us that little bit of something else, he did particularly well.”
