Michael Carrick paid tribute to Bruno Fernandes after the Manchester United captain produced another match-winning display in a 3-1 win over Aston Villa, a result that moves the Red Devils three points clear of their rivals in the Champions League qualification race.
Fernandes registered two assists, taking his season tally to 16 in the Premier League, a new record for a United player in a single campaign, surpassing the mark previously held by David Beckham.
It was also his 100th assist in all competitions for the club, making him only the third player in United’s history to reach a century of both goals and assists, alongside Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney.
Carrick, speaking to BBC Match of the Day after the final whistle, showered his skipper in praise. “He’s had so many big moments, to score a goal, to make a pass. Training or games, he’s always there. Really good with the corner. The pass to Matheus was fantastic to cap off a good performance all around.”
Champions League aspirations
The United boss was equally candid about what the result means for his side. “It was a slightly different game today going into it being so close in the league and making the small jump we could if we won, off the back of a defeat.
“It was a small test and we haven’t really had that. The boys dealt with it really well, had a really good week, and applied themselves well. Everything is so so encouraging. We’ve got a lot to play for.
“We can enjoy winning. It’s a good feeling and something we want to keep getting used to. We are keeping a lid on it and understanding where we are and what it takes to win games like today.”
Fernandes himself was characteristically humble when reflecting on his landmark achievement.
“Giving joy to the others is very good,” he said. “I’m more proud and pleased because I’m serving my team-mates.
“It was very important because it was against a direct opponent, we had the same points, to gain this advantage from them is always good. At the end of the day, we’ll see where we finish, and if we can finish second, even better.”
United now sit third in the Premier League with eight games remaining, and Carrick’s record since taking charge in January makes for remarkable reading – seven wins from eleven, with five of those coming at home without conceding a single league defeat at Old Trafford.
