Erik ten Hag explains how Bruno Fernandes is leading Manchester United ‘by example’

Erik ten Hag has outlined how Bruno Fernandes leads the Manchester United squad "by example" after the playmaker thanked fans for voting him as player of the month for March.

The midfielder narrowly came out on top with 40 per cent of the vote, just edging Marcus Rashford’s 39 per cent. Fernandes, who has missed just two matches all season, scored three times and assisted two more across March.

The 28-year-old is United’s on-field captain as Harry Maguire continues to be left out of Ten Hag's team and supporters have appreciated his leadership during a month that started with a 7-0 defeat to Liverpool and ended with a 3-1 FA Cup quarter-final win over Fulham.

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Upon receiving the accolade, Fernandes thanked fans for their support. He said: “Thanks to all the fans that voted me for Player of the Month. I really appreciate [it].

“It’s a good sign that you appreciate my effort, everything I do on the pitch. I just want to say a big thank you to you and let’s push again, all together, until the end of the season.”

Erik ten Hag hailed the influence of Fernandes on the United squad when speaking to club media ahead of Newcastle on Sunday. The Reds boss said: “He is fantastic. He has [had] a fantastic season so far and firstly he is an example.

“He gives so much energy to the team, but he is taking so much responsibility and pushing the team, but often by example. Not only by coaching, by example and he is so good in transitional moments.

“Of course, in the final third, he is continually a threat. In possession, he is always available to receive the ball. He is always an option and almost every time, he has the right solution.

“I am so happy with Bruno in my team, and I think