Paul Merson credits Ralf Rangnick for Bruno Fernandes tweak at Man Utd

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has hailed Ralf Rangnick for his subtle change to Bruno Fernandes ' role in the Manchester United midfield.

Fernandes, 27, is United's first-choice in the No. 10 role but he has also been used as a central midfielder at times this season.

Giving the Portuguese playmaker the right platform to shine is of the utmost importance, as he has proved himself to be one of the club's most important players since his arrival two years ago.

Fernandes grabbed his eighth Premier League goal of the season in Tuesday night's 2-0 victory over Brighton, scoring with the last kick of the game.

He lined up as an attacking midfielder against the Seagulls and Merson was pleased to see him in a role where he can maximise his impact.

The 53-year-old also believes Fernandes can excel in a "deeper" role but praised Rangnick for how he is handling the former Sporting Lisbon man.

"He's just got to get on the ball and make things happen for his team," Merson told Sportskeeda of Fernandes. "The more touches he gets, the better Manchester United play as a team.

"Personally, I like it when he plays a little deeper because he can pick a pass. But I also like where he is playing under Ralf Rangnick at the moment."

While Merson praised Rangnick for his use of Fernandes, he cannot understand why the German insists on using Jadon Sancho on the left flank.

The England international shared his minutes on either wing during his eye-catching spell at Borussia Dortmund, but he has struggled to live up to the £73million United paid for his services last summer.

Merson added: "I don't really know why Jadon Sancho is playing as a left-winger after impressing on the right side at Borussia Dortmund, but he's trying to get to