Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes must stay fit if the club are to achieve success this season, BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks believes. The Portugal international had a minor scare in the club’s 2-1 FA Cup win over Norwich City on Saturday. And Crooks claimed that sparked ‘panic’ in the United ranks.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side were far from their best against Norwich on Saturday.
They took the lead through Odion Ighalo in the 51st minute but were forced into extra time courtesy of Todd Cantwell’s powerful drive.
United eventually won the game right at the death, with Harry Maguire the unlikely match winner.
Fernandes starred for the Red Devils although lost the ball many times. Far too many for Solskjaer’s liking on the Carrow Road touchline.
And Crooks, after selecting Fernandes in his team of the week, believes the Portugal international is vital or the Red Devils.
“There was a moment when Bruno Fernandes required treatment against Sheffield United and there was a sudden sense of panic in the Manchester United ranks,” Crooks told the BBC.
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“We’re in the semi-finals and we’re delighted with that,” the Norwegian said.
“Last year we got to the quarter-finals and lost to Wolves. Now, at least, we are in the semi-finals at Wembley.
“It’s important for this team to win their first trophy or to get to their first final together.
“That will help the winning culture because we have to start winning things.”
Solskjaer also praised Maguire after the game, with the United captain settling the tie in extra time.
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“Harry has been magnificent since he’s come to the club, his leadership skills are there to be seen, he helped us with the build-up,” Solskjaer added.
“Today, I think he won every single header and every challenge, so I’m very pleased with Harry.”
United will now go up against Chelsea in the last four.
They lost to the Blues in the 2018 cup final but did beat them last season courtesy of goals from Ander Herrera and Paul Pogba.
They’ve also won their last four showdowns against the Blues in all competitions.
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