Bruno Fernandes has sent Manchester United's new manager a message they won't ignore

It had been billed as the Cristiano Ronaldo show, but by full-time, Portugal's passage to the World Cup was all about his Manchester United compatriot.

Bruno Fernandes has experienced somewhat of a strange season at Old Trafford, in which his role in the line-up has been questioned despite his undeniable game-changing ability. His brilliant brace on Tuesday night served as a timely reminder of exactly what he does at his best.His case has not been helped by the change of formation since Ralf Rangnick was appointed interim manager, with Fernandes still trying to adapt his game to work as part of a midfield three rather than the previous attacking midfield role he was allowed under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Another struggle for Fernandes has been coming to terms with the fact that he is no longer the superstar in the team and he has had to once again operate in the shadows cast by golden forward Ronaldo.

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It is true the 27-year-old is not affecting matches quite as often as he did when he first arrived at the club, though that is more so a reflection of United's overall demise this season rather than a specific criticism of a talisman who has now been asked to do a different job.

For a perceived drop off in form, it is still important to note that Fernandes has registered 49 goals and notched 40 assists since he joined United in January 2020. He has been overdue for a contract extension ever since that maiden season ended.

Since he made his debut for the club, the Portuguese playmaker leads the way among Premier League midfielders with the most goals, most assists and most chances created — surely a worthwhile trade for the amount of times he loses possession