Bruno Fernandes will be suspended for Man United as they gear up to take on Aston Villa next weekend.
Manchester United did just about enough against West Ham United to win all three points on Sunday, with Erik ten Hag’s side under pressure late on, but coming out on top 1-0.
Marcus Rashford provided the goal, though it was the defence that deserve all the plaudits. From Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire, to the two full-backs, everyone played their part. The complete team performance.
The full-time celebrations from the lads in red were absolutely justified. You could see what it meant to the players, though the result was marred by a Bruno Fernandes yellow card.
Now, the key United star is set to be absent for the Aston Villa game next weekend following the careless booking. It was just so unnecessary and you could see how disappointed Bruno was straight away. He yelled at the ref, but you could see he knew deep down that it was a bad decision…
Like many of his teammates, Bruno has improved week-on-week in this system. The Portugal international is undroppable, given the fact he’s the only genuine threat the Reds have in that #10 slot.
Now, Ten Hag will have to mastermind a victory without him on the pitch…
So what are the options as Bruno Fernandes is suspended?
To us here at Old Trafford Faithful, the most likely scenario is Christian Eriksen will play higher up the field, with Fred coming into the side to play in the deeper role. The Dane spent most of his career in that #10 slot and it would be intriguing to see if United play better with him in that more advanced role.
Another option involves Donny van de Beek. The Dutchman was supposed to be getting best to his best under Ten Hag. That hasn’t happened so far. The talent remains, though confidence is understandably low.
Van de Beek is now back fit. But does he have enough in the tank to start a physically-demanding Premier League game after only just returning following a lengthy absence? I’m not so sure…
But before that, a huge Europa League clash against Real Sociedad…
Do you think Bruno Fernandes being suspended will give Ten Hag a chance to look at Donny van de Beek? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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