Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick did not mince words in naming Bruno Fernandes as favorite to win Premier League player of the year award. Fernandes registered his 19th assist of the season on Monday night, helping United to a 2-1 win over Brentford that put them on the brink of qualification for the Champions League. He provided an assist to Benjamin Sesko, who scored the second goal of the game, three minutes before the break.
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Bruno Fernandes was also involved in the first goal, with a corner which Harry Maguire headed across for Casemiro to nod in. The Portugal international is now one assist away from Premier League record of 20 assists in a single season, jointly held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry.
Following the game, Carrick was asked if the Portuguese playmaker deserved the individual award at the end of the season.
Carrick said via Sky Sports: “Hopefully he does. He deserves it for the impact he has had and the moments he’s created, whether it’s creating or scoring or having other influence within the group. He’s had a big season.”
Arsenal duo Declan Rice and Gabriel alongside Manchester City duo Erling Haaland and Antoine Semenyo are in the race for the POTY awards. Bernardo Silva is regarded as the sentimental choice since he is leaving English football at the end of the season. Ryan Cherki is also regarded as a worthy contender for the award. At least two of the players will finish the season as Premier League champions.
Meanwhile, United have four games to go secure Champions League qualification spot for next season.
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