Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has commented on the future of Bruno Fernandes at the club.
The Dutchman was responding to comments made by Fernandes during the week. He told DAZN Portugal: “If you want me to be very honest, if I have to think about not continuing in the Premier League, it won’t be until after the Euros”.
Ten Hag, however, believes the quotes, which were given in Portuguese, were taken out of context and does not see his star player leaving Old Trafford in the near future.
Fernandes is under contract at Man United until 2026 with the option of an additional yeah, and Ten Hag believes he will “definitely” see out the next two years of his current deal.
“Absolutely but that was also taken out of context,” Ten Hag said. “I haven’t even asked [Fernandes about the context] because I know he is Manchester United and I think he is very happy to be here.”
Fernandes is a doubt for Monday night’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace after fracturing his hand and has not been involved in team training.
The midfielder has never missed a game through injury for Man United, something Ten Hag admires in his skipper.
“Absolutely important [to have him available],” he said. “Taking responsibility is one of the biggest assets nowadays top footballers have to show and to deliver. Bruno always delivers.
“He is always available, he never misses a game and always plays in a good level and always giving energy to a team and such assets are necessary to be successful.
“It is also a very subjective criteria (to be fit). One is sure: Bruno is a real fighter. Last year for instance, when we played Brighton in the semi-final, he played with an ankle that was so thick, unbelievable. He couldn’t run but he was still on the pitch.
“What is fair enough is that Bruno is a very good example for many other players.”
