Erik ten Hag has hailed the performances of Bruno Fernandes this season as he prepares to welcome the Portuguese back into the Manchester United side for their FA Cup semi-final against Brighton.
Fernandes has been an unsung hero of United's season so far, playing in 49 of a possible 52 matches across all competitions.
He has been a key part of what they have achieved so far under Ten Hag and his absence was heavily felt in their midweek humiliation against Sevilla.
FOLLOW: United vs Brighton build-up and early team news
The 28-year-old missed the match through suspension, but will return to the United side for their FA Cup clash at Wembley later today.
His performance could determine United's success on the day, and ahead of the match Ten Hag hailed the standards he has set throughout the season.
''He is (in great form)," Fernandes told club media. "You can see how important he is for this group. He is bringing the energy; he is the example, and he is a leader. We are happy that he is back.''
United have already won once at Wembley this season as they defeated Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final, and Ten Hag hopes that experience can help his side handle the occassion against Brighton.
He added: ''It is only that we have the experience, to play in that ambience. For the rest, it is nothing because it is a new game and we have to prove ourselves again. This is what you have to do and for our routine, you have to do this in every game, every game is a test.
"You have to earn the shirt of Manchester United and that is how you must go into every game, and you need the team. Therefore, you have to stick together as a team and stick to the plan and then we will have a great chance of winning.''
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