Manchester United returned to winning ways on Wednesday, beating Nottingham Forest in a grueling FA Cup fixture. However, this victory did not come without a cost as one star player was seen limping while exiting the stadium.
That man was Bruno Fernandes, the club captain and the player who assisted Casemiro for the winning goal. While his performance was polarizing, the Portuguese ace made a game-winning contribution nonetheless and remains one of the most creative players in the Premier League.
However, he was fouled a handful of times, which sparked anger from Erik ten Hag during the post-match conference, and was later seen limping as he left the City Ground Stadium.
This is concerning as the Red Devils return to action this weekend, traveling to Manchester City in the always-exciting Manchester Derby. Ten Hag's men have lost their last three trips to the Etihad Stadium and will need their skipper fit for that fixture if they are to stand a chance.
However, according to Manchester Evening News reporter Samuel Luckhurst, the Portuguese ace is still likely to feature in the upcoming Manchester Derby. The player was already suffering from a knock he picked up in the 2-1 loss at home to Fulham but played through the pain and will likely do the same this weekend.
Fernandes limping as he left the ground. Was a doubt with a knock but played the full game. Would still expect him to start Sunday. Still never missed a game for #mufc through injury. pic.twitter.com/eIw9VaRFGq
— Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) February 28, 2024
The Red Devils are fighting tooth and nail to qualify for UEFA Champions League football next season but currently sit outside the top four by eight points. Additionally, a fifth-placed finish could earn them a ticket but that spot is currently held by Tottenham, who are three points ahead of Ten Hag's sixth-placed side.
The English giants are already in the midst of an injury crisis, with Mason Mount, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Rasmus Hojlund, Anthony Martial, and Tyrell Malacia all receiving treatment.