Bruno’s ‘aura’ the inspiration for upturn in form

HARRY Maguire believes Bruno Fernandes has an aura that is inspiring his United team-mates to perform better.

The Reds’ form has drastically improved since his January arrival from Sporting Lisbon, with the new signing providing the assist for Anthony Martial’s opening goal in the 2-0 derby win over City.

It means Fernandes has three goals and three assists in his first six starts for the club. Maguire believes United can keep getting better all over the pitch, particularly in possession, but could not help lauding Fernandes’ transformative impact at Old Trafford.

Both the Portuguese playmaker and fellow new boy Odion Ighalo performed well in the triumph over Pep Guardiola’s side.

“Defensively we were solid and it should have been more than 1-0 in the first half,” Maguire said. “In the second half we dug in deep, defended well as a team and deserved the three points.” He was then asked about the turnaround in United’s fortunes, which has seen them embark on a 10-match unbeaten run.

The hot streak owes plenty to Maguire and his defensive teammates, who have recorded eight clean sheets in his previous 10 appearances – but he was quick to lavish Fernandes with more praise.

“Winning games brings belief,” added the United captain. “We believe we can push on from this. With the ball we can do better.

“You can see what Bruno has brought since he has come in. He has a big personality and he has an aura about him.”