Pogba hails Fernandes’ influence on United
Paul Pogba says it is a joy to play alongside Bruno Fernandes as the Manchester United midfielder continues to kick on after injury.
The 28-year-old missed six weeks with a hamstring issue picked up in early February, but returned with a bang, coming off the bench to fire Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side to victory at AC Milan in the Europa League.
Pogba has since helped United into the semi-finals and consolidate second place in the Premier League, with the side going for a fifth straight win when Burnley
visit today. The Clarets inflicted a 2-0 loss on their last visit to Old Trafford in January 2020 – one of the lowest moments of the Red Devils’ season, which was swiftly followed by the big-money acquisition of Fernandes. The 26-year-old has surpassed the lofty expectations that came with his move from Sporting Lisbon and Pogba loves what he brings to the club.
“I enjoy playing with Bruno,” Pogba said. “He’s someone who understands the game and understands the movement that can give you a beautiful pass, and he can finish too.
“He’s all over the place, he can do everything really… except defending! But really, it’s always a joy to play with him, to understand him. He understands me as well, he can take my position, I can take his position as well.
“I think he suits the team, he’s a very dominant influence in our team.”
Sean Dyche is hoping to see Ashley Barnes fit and firing for Burnley before the end of the season.
Barnes finished as joint top scorer for the Clarets alongside Chris Wood in 2018-19, but has been hampered by injuries in each of the last two campaigns.
The 31-year-old, who missed nine months with a hernia problem last year, has been out since February 17 with a thigh injury, suffering setbacks in his recovery, but has returned to light training in recent days.
Dyche said: “He’s a strong character and I’m pretty sure he’ll come through it. He looks more alive, he’s getting himself more involved.”