Manchester United have given their verdict on Alvaro Fernandez loan spell

Preston North End manager Ryan Lowe has revealed that Manchester United are 'over the moon' with the progress Alvaro Fernandez is making during his loan spell at Deepdale.

The 19-year-old, who can operate as either a left-back or a wing-back, joined the Lilywhites on loan for the duration of the campaign back in July. He has made significant progress during his stint in Lancashire, racking up 27 appearances in all competitions.

After three Championship fixtures out of the starting XI, Fernandez, who made 23 appearances for United's Under-21s in the Premier League 2 last season, was recalled to the side for Wednesday evening's 1-1 draw with Luton Town at Deepdale. He started in the left wing-back role and stored a valuable 90 minutes under his belt.

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During the contest, however, the Spaniard was forced to move inside and take up a central-midfield berth, following the sending-off of Ben Whiteman just five minutes into the start of the second half. He was not fazed by the positional switch, meaning he earned praise from boss Lowe, who confirmed that United are pleased with the progress he is making.

Lowe, speaking to Lancs Live, said: "He's a young kid, isn't he? In terms of the games he's played for us and the minutes he's played for us, I know Man United are absolutely over the moon with it.

"Because he is a good player, but he's still young, naïve and we still have to tactically tell him what to do and what not to do. Even at the end there, he's asking if he should jump or not.

"His awareness, defending, has got a lot better and it's a learning process for Alvaro. When he plays and performs the way he can, he's a very good player.

"The rotation we have,