Bruno Fernandes returns

Bruno Fernandes is back.

The Portugal international has been a key figure for Manchester United since arriving in January 2020 from Sporting Lisbon.

In 308 appearances across all competitions for United, Fernandes has recorded 103 goals and 93 assists.

He has been the one shining light in what has been a turbulent few years for the club both on and off the pitch.

The 31-year old last played for United in their 2-1 loss away to Aston Villa on December 21st, where he managed just 45 minutes due to a hamstring injury.

As such, he has missed United’s past three games.

Whilst United have not lost in this period, they have only won one of these three.

A 1-0 win at home to Newcastle United on Boxing Day was followed by a home draw to bottom side Wolverhampton Wanderers and spoils were shared against Leeds United on Sunday.

Even in his absence in recent weeks, United have still managed to cause a media stir, with manager Ruben Amorim sacked yesterday after a dismal run of form and public fall out with Director of Football Jason Wilcox.

Now, interim boss Darren Fletcher has reported that Bruno Fernandes will return to United’s squad for their Premier League game against Burnley.

In his first pre-match press conference ahead of the Burnley game, Fletcher commented: “Mason [Mount] and Bruno [Fernandes] were pushing to play against Leeds.”

He continued: “I think the decision was that they weren’t quite ready, so they’ve trained, so they’ll be back in the squad.

“But they’ll be on managed minutes as well and restricted minutes because they’ve obviously just returned to training.”

This news comes on the back of the report by CentreDevils that Bruno Fernandes was closing in on his return.

They prepare to face Burnley tomorrow before a weekend FA Cup third-round clash with Brighton and Hove Albion.

Arsenal and Manchester City then await United, who will hugely benefit from the return of their captain.

With United just three points off the top four, this is a key part of the campaign for the club as they look to secure Champions League football back at Old Trafford once again.