Fernandes looking Ince-perfect as the hero of Old Trafford
BRUNO FERNANDES’ stunning form means Manchester United need just two more players to become a top side again, says Paul Ince.
The playmaker was signed from Sporting Lisbon in January for £47million.
Since moving to Old Trafford, Fernandes has been instrumental in firing United up the Premier League table.
With two league games left to play, Ole
Gunnar Solskjaer’s side are firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish.
He is still expected to splash the cash this summer.
And ex-United ace Ince (above) reckons his old side are well on their way to becoming a serious force.
“What you’re seeing now is a solid nucleus in that side,” he said.
“But there’s also plenty of talk about the likes of Jadon Sancho and Kai Havertz. It’s exciting times for United, it really is.
“Solskjaer is putting himself in a position where he can win things and suddenly all of this talk about Maurico Pochettino is drifting away.
“There was a lot of gloom hanging over Old Trafford and that’s now gone as United have improved.
“It was Fernandes from day one that made the difference.
“You come to United and it’s one of the biggest clubs in world. You can’t take your time to settle in.
“You have to hit the ground running – which is something Paul Pogba didn’t do.
“United fans have always wanted a hero – Fernandes is now the star name to sing about.”
But Ince, 52, has warned the Portugal international cannot rest on his laurels. The retired midfielder insists the schemer,
25, will need to keep pushing.
“His performances have been so good but you do still have to give it more time,” he added.
“Players like Roy Keane and Paul Scholes did it over several seasons.
“But the first signs are he’s got a bit of everything.
“He has a lovely touch and awareness – as well as being a set-piece specialist.”
Fernandes’ exploits in a United shirt have cast more doubt on Pogba’s future at the club.
Ince believes Solskjaer has some tough decisions ahead.
“Prices now are going to come down,” he said. “Would Real Madrid or Juventus pay
£90m for Pogba? “He won’t command that sort of money. It’d be more like £60m.
“But with the introduction of Fernandes, you never know, United might consider letting him go if they need some cash.”