Ten Hag: Bruno loves Manchester United
In his post-match press conference following the 3-2 victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag fielded questions on his captain, Bruno Fernandes.
Goals from the young trio of Kobbie Mainoo, Amad and Rasmus Hojlund proved enough to take all three points from the Premier League encounter, despite a stoppage-time scare as a result of Lewis Hall's late strike, added to Anthony Gordon's earlier effort.
The lead would hold until the referee's final whistle and, in a Sky Sports interview given on the pitch at full-time, Fernandes was asked about his future with United.
Asked about this by journalists inside Old Trafford, the manager was clear about his captain's importance to the team, both this season and going forward.
Watch Ten Hag's press conference
Erik was asked about fans, Amrabat, Bruno and more in his media briefing after Newcastle's visit to Old Trafford...
"No, absolutely, the club wants to keep Bruno. There is no question," the Dutchman, said when asked about the Portugal international's importance.
"He loves Manchester United, he loves the fans from Manchester United, and he loves to play for Manchester United."
Ten Hag went on to recognise just how key Fernandes is to the team, not just in his performances but also as an example to his fellow team-mates.
The manager said: "You see he gives always his best. And he's an example, even with injuries; he's playing. He loves football.
"He wants to win, and I think that's how I describe his character."
Playing further forward in the win against Newcastle United - filling in for Rasmus Hojlund who Ten Hag started on the bench to keep the Dane fresh for the final two games of the season - Fernandes was instrumental in the victory.
It was our no.8 who set up Hojlund late in the game for the Reds' crucial third goal, especially in light of Hall's late consolation strike.
A smart assist it was too, poking a pass through the legs of Joelinton before watching his team-mate battle with Dan Burn to create a shooting angle.
The boss was impressed by what he saw from the Portugese creator, but it came as little surprise due to his consistent contributions throughout the campaign.
"I'm very pleased with his performance," Ten Hag said. "And [his] performances across the season, because, for him, it's not easy when so many players are injured around him, and every time he has to carry the team.
"But then, for him, he keeps a good level, and I would say even a high level, especially in the spring, he grows to a brilliant level.
"I'm very pleased with it."