Ten Hag: Fernandes did 'everything' to get fit
Erik ten Hag has hailed Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes for playing the entirety of the Reds' 2-2 draw at Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday, despite picking up an injury in last week's Emirates FA Cup semi-final.
The Portugal international had to be substituted during extra-time at Wembley on Sunday, after developing an ankle problem in the first half of the match against Brighton.
But our no.8 returned to the starting line-up for the trip to north London just four days later and played the full match, even setting up Marcus Rashford's 29th goal of the season with a raking long pass.
Ahead of Sunday's match against Aston Villa at Old Trafford (14:00 BST), Ten Hag was quick to praise our no.8 for his unwavering commitment to the game and his team.
Press conference: United v Aston Villa Video
Press conference: United v Aston Villa
Press conference | Erik ten Hag discusses Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes and Villa's form ahead of Sunday's game...
"He was tough and [I want to give a] big compliment to Bruno," began Erik in his pre-match press conference.
"He absolutely doesn't want to miss this game and he did everything to get fit.
"I think he is the example: that you have to suffer; that you have to sacrifice when you want to play at the top level; when you want to achieve something."
The boss suggested Fernandes's determination is what sets him apart, believing it can act as a true inspiration for his team-mates.
Ten Hag admits that he hopes others will be motivated to follow his lead.
"Once again, he showed there how [much of a] great captain he is, how he has taken responsibility, even if he is not 100 per cent fit. But he did the job.
"He was important in this game as well, and hopefully others in the team can, not learn, but see him as an inspiration and do the same."
90 in 20: Tottenham v United Video
90 in 20: Tottenham v United
90 in 20 | Extended highlights of an entertaining match in north London are now available to view...
The playmaker has missed just three of United's 54 fixtures so far this season – Aston Villa away (Premier League), Charlton Athletic (Carabao Cup) and Sevilla away (Europa League) – all because of enforced suspensions.
It is hoped the 28-year-old will be fit enough to remain in the starting XI when in-form Villa arrive in M16 for Sunday's Premier League match.
Under Unai Emery, the Midlanders are unbeaten since mid-February and have pushed themselves right into the mix for European football next season.
Under Unai Emery, the Midlanders are unbeaten since mid-February and have pushed themselves right into the mix for European football next season.
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