Hair today, gone tomorrow.
There was a time he was referred to by adorning Manchester United supporters as the ‘baby-faced assassin’. These days he attracts unfair comparisons (albeit from rival fans) with Lord of the Rings’ Gollum. But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has admitted that his star man could soon have him looking even more like Andy Serkis’ grotesque character in the near future.
Bruno Fernandes’ contribution since he joined United in January has been nothing short of sensational. In fact it has been record-breaking. On Saturday he set a new Premier League record for most direct goal involvements by any midfielder in a calendar year with 31 (18 goals and 13 assists) – and he’s still got one more chance to add to that tally on Tuesday against Wolves.
And as much as Solskjaer is grateful for Fernandes’ bravery and impact, he does get frustrated on occasions with his Portuguese star.
“He is definitely a player who impacts results,” admitted the Norwegian. “He creates chances, scores goals and takes risks – which any Manchester United player should be allowed to do and be brave enough to do. He is definitely a brave boy. He sees the pass.
“Sometimes I tear my hair out and say that there is an easier pass to the right or to the left or back but you cannot take that away from Bruno. You want him to be the x-factor who has players ahead of him making runs so I am very pleased with his influence this season and this year. He is always there supporting his team-mates as well.
“That is also part of the team. He does have players ahead of him making runs and giving him opportunities to play those passes. It is not just down to Bruno. We have to remember that he has come into a team that helps him as well. We all have a role to play and he is playing his role to the best of his ability.”
United fans will happily accept a baldie Ole if it means Fernandes continues his remarkable form.
