Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has continued to establish himself as a leader since training with Paul Pogba, according to reports. The duo are yet to play together since the former’s move from Sporting Lisbon in January. But they could get their chance against Tottenham in the Red Devils’ mouthwatering Premier League showdown on Friday night.
In the short time since his move to Manchester United, Fernandes has become an instant fan favourite.
The Portugal international has produced the goods, scoring three goals and assisting three more from eight matches across all competitions.
Pogba has been unable to play alongside Fernandes at Old Trafford so far, with injury ruling him out since the 4-1 win over Newcastle on Boxing Day.
Now, though, he’s fully fit and raring to go.
He’s been training alongside Fernandes with United hoping the pair can propel them into the Premier League top four – and on to EFL Cup and Europa League glory.
And The Athletic say Fernandes has continued to demonstrate his leadership qualities since training alongside the France international.
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It’s said he has ‘continued to assume a de facto leadership role by vocalising high demands.’
Ever since his move the 25-year-old has become an instant leader in Solskjaer’s squad, asking for more of his team-mates as United aim to improve.
And Pogba has responded well, with the player reportedly ‘bouncing off a kindred football spirit’.
Despite that, though, the France international is likely to start Friday’s Premier League clash with Tottenham on the bench.
And whether United can beat old manager Jose Mourinho without him in the starting XI remains to be seen.
Pogba and Mourinho had a rocky relationship during their time at United together.
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“He’s going to make everything possible to be at his best level to help Manchester United to get the top four.
“About the title, it’s almost done, but for the fourth place, or the fifth place, there will be a big battle and for the relegation, it will be an even bigger battle. It’s the final sprint, you can win or lose everything.
“In March we were all in different form and unfortunately the Covid came from nowhere. No-one could have expected that.
“At the time we were not at our best. But it belongs to the past.
“We all wanted to finish the season and now we are getting close. All teams have recovered players from injuries. It’s been a very strange season. But it has to end.”