Manchester United news: Bruno Fernandes heaps praise on midfield duo after Leeds win
- Planet Sport writer
- 21 February 2022
Manchester United sealed a 4-2 win on Sunday afternoon in stormy conditions, and Bruno Fernandes reserved praise for two midfielders in particular.
The Red Devils took a 2-0 lead into half time after headers from Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes, but Leeds fought back after the break and levelled the scores with two goals in quick succession.
However, Manchester United rediscovered their composure despite the torrid conditions and regained the lead through Fred before Anthony Elanga sealed the win late on.
United entered the match as the only team in the top flight not to score from a corner this season, but on their 140th attempt, Maguire finally ended their dreadful streak.
Set pieces in general is one side of the game that United have fallen extremely short in this season despite hiring new set piece coach Eric Ramsay, but Bruno Fernandes feels that the situation is "improving".
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"We are improving on that. We have scored against Burnley too, but unluckily for us the referee saw a foul there," said Fernandes.
"If we keep on doing the right things, we will score more goals from set-pieces.
"But the main point is scoring goals. If it is from set-pieces or whatever it is, we have to score."
Having drawn three of their last five games, United's character was tested in the second half when Leeds drew level, but they dug deep and headed home with the three points.
Much of United's grit came through their midfield, who were involved in a relentless battle in the centre of the pitch while they also battled against the weather.
Following the match, Fernandes reserved praise for Scott McTominay and Fred, who came off the bench to put United ahead and inject some much-needed energy into the middle of the pitch.
"Fred is a player that works very hard and doesn't get a lot of praise," Fernandes said.
"Him and Scott are two players who are really important for us in many games.
"I'm really happy for him and also for Anthony, who got his goal. He's a kid that deserves that.
"The important point for us was understanding if we keep doing the right things, and taking the right decisions, we can win the game.
"Even if you concede goals you have to keep making the right decisions."
The win returned United to fourth place in the Premier League, but with rivals boasting games in hand beneath them, Ralf Rangnick's side will be eager to maintain their winning streak.
But firstly, the Red Devils head to Madrid midweek to resume their Champions League campaign against La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.
