Roy Keane has lauded Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes after insisting the Portuguese ace is a hugely important player for Erik ten Hag's side.
Fernandes played the full 90 minutes as United secured a 2-0 second-leg victory over Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night, with the Reds securing their place in the final with a 5-0 aggregate win. Anthony Martial and Fred were on target for the home side in the midweek clash.
With Harry Maguire having fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford, Fernandes has captained United for the majority of the season. The 28-year-old midfielder has already made 31 appearances for the Reds this term, with 30 of those coming as a starter under Ten Hag.
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The Portugal international has registered six goals and seven assists this campaign, and Keane - who has been critical of Fernandes' defensive capabilities in the past - was full of praise for the United man after the win over Forest.
"I think Bruno’s always shown his quality, that’s always there to see," Keane said on Sky Sports. "We’ve seen it over the two legs, obviously his goal in the first one and he’s got brilliant touches - the guy’s got unbelievable talent.
"I’ve been quite critical of maybe more of his defensive side, but in terms of going forward he knows the weight of pass, he sees the pass, he’s a goal threat, and he’s got unbelievable talent.
"You give him time and space, you are asking for trouble. You’ve got to get close to him. That [versatility] is what the good players give you. If he does play off the right he is not a wide right player because he’s not got the pace, but he will come in and play in pockets, because what he does have, like all brilliant players, is football intelligence.
"He knows where the space is and if you do get it to him he will hurt you if you drop off. He is a huge player for United."
Fernandes was on target against Steve Cooper's side in the first leg of their semi-final clash. The Reds will face Newcastle United in the final at Wembley later this month.
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