17 October 2023 , 07:51
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Roberto Martinez has hailed the "tactical flexibility" of Bruno Fernandes as a standout quality in the Portugal star.
The former Everton and Wigan boss is now working with the playmaker in the national set-up and has hailed the versatility provided by the Manchester United skipper. Fernandes' profile has skyrocketed since he moved to the Premier League back in 2020.
Fernandes is away with Portugal amid United's difficult start to the season, in which they've lost half of their eight league games with Erik ten Hag seemingly under pressure. Martinez though has hinted that Fernandes' versatility could offer the Dutchman a chance to shuffle his pack, potentially allowing his captain to influence the game in differing roles.
The Portugal boss told Record: “Bruno Fernandes is a very good professional, a player who has seven assists, an intelligent player, who adapts to the qualities of his teammates, who gives a lot of tactical flexibility. Bruno Fernandes is a dream for a coach!
"He needs training to understand the idea of the game and has a high level of execution. Technically he has a vision of the game that I think is of superlative quality and I really like his work. He’s adapted to many positions, he gives structure, he gives balance, he’s a key player for us.”
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Fernandes has traditionally played as the No. 10 for United, a role he has reprised this season. The Red Devils though are misfiring and Ten Hag is dealing with injuries and off-field issues, which is hampering his selection.
Bruno Fernandes has continued to impress with PortugalLast season the United boss used Fernandes from the right on many occasions, allowing other players to take up a creative role centrally. “He can play several roles. You need players like Bruno to be successful," said Ten Hag after a successful positional tweak last term.
United signed Mason Mount in the summer and the former Chelsea man has produced some of his best football when playing centrally. Ten Hag could give him the chance as a 10 with Fernandes influencing the game from a wider position, with Sheffield United their next opponents.