Bruno Fernandes first Manchester United midfielder to achieve feat in 21 years

While Manchester United’s April was less than fortuitous for the Old Trafford club, Bruno Fernandes shone through.

In April, Manchester United recorded just one outright win, drawing four games and losing one during their penultimate month of the 2023/24 campaign across all competitions.

The Sheffield United victory was coupled with draws against Liverpool, Bournemouth, and Coventry City (although the club won the FA Cup semi-final tie on penalties) and Burnley, with a loss coming at the beginning of the month against Chelsea.

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However, from an individual standpoint, Bruno Fernandes had a stellar month, winning United’s Player of the Month award for April and scoring six Premier League goals in the process.

Fernandes netted against Chelsea, Liverpool, Bournemouth (2), and Sheffield United (2) in the Premier League, while also notching himself a goal against Coventry in the FA Cup.

A first in 21 years

Fernandes’ six league goals in April have made him the first Manchester United player to achieve such a feat since Robin van Persie 11 years ago, when the Dutch talisman scored six in April 2013.

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However, the more impressive feat is that Fernandes has also become the first United midfielder to do so since Paul Scholes, who scored six goals in April 2003, which is now 21 years ago.

Although Fernandes’ goal-getting has somewhat dithered since his remarkable season of netting 28 goals during 2020/21 for both United and Sporting Lisbon, he certainly has not lost his scoring touch when it’s needed.

Ten Hag’s praise

“He is our captain, and he works during the off-season so hard on the training ground, and he brings the energy in every game,” Ten Hag told club media. “Every occasion, he sets an example as a captain for the team, and you see his form growing across the season.

“By the end of the season, he is in great form and he is scoring goals, making key actions with assists.

“I am really impressed with his performances, contributing to the team spirit but also individually with his creation. I am happy with his performances.”