Louis Saha believes that Bruno Fernandes could become the Premier League’s best player.
The Portuguese forward has established himself as Manchester United’s most consistent performer, and earned the captain’s armband under Erik ten Hag.
He recently signed fresh terms at Old Trafford, committing his future for the next season at least.
With new signings through the door under INEOS’ co-ownership, Saha told Paddy Power that Fernandes could now flourish.
He said: “Bruno Fernandes is one of the best attacking midfielders in the league and the person who creates the most chances.
“There might be players who can do a job, but in the Premier League, with the pressure of playing for Manchester United, it’s challenging for any player, and he’s really had to take the pressure off the team.
“He’s been asked to be the captain where initially he was just a leader on the pitch. He’s done well as captain.
“He’s underrated because he’s being asked to do more things and that’s the problem. I saw the same criticism with Casemiro as well, just because of the context. Last year he struggled but the season before he was a revelation and helped the squad. Last year people wanted him to do more, and that’s where he struggled.
“Bruno Fernandes is being asked to do too much. He wants to press, create chances, lead the team and sometimes he’ll get tired. He might not have the focus he needs because he’s being asked to do too much.
“Some players around him haven't helped him enough and that’s been the problem with Manchester United. He would have been way better if he played for a team who were winning more comfortably, but he isn’t and that’s why he’s been scrutinised.
“He deserved his new contract but what I'm always scared about with new contracts is that the player doesn’t always play the same. We saw that with Rashy [Marcus Rashford]. He signed his new contract and then maybe something happened where he relaxed a little bit but then his performances and standards dropped a bit.
“I’m not scared about that with Bruno because he has the right approach every game. He always gives 200%. I wouldn’t be surprised if he becomes the best player in the league.”
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