A new Man Utd era - but Fernandes still sets the standard

Bruno Fernandes began the season below his usual level, but he responded with a hat-trick that helped Manchester United beat Ipswich 3-1 at home.

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He means a lot. I mean, he’s the captain. He’s been here for a good number of years now and experienced a whole load of different emotions.

The captain had collected the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award earlier in the week for his contribution to United’s return to the Champions League after a two-year absence. He also recorded a Premier League record 21 assists last season.

Fernandes scored United’s equalizer after an Ipswich mistake allowed Matheus Cunha to set up the chance. He then converted a penalty in front of the Stretford End and completed his third United hat-trick seven minutes later. He had missed two penalties during pre-season, adding personal pressure to the spot kick.

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Times like today, when you’re looking towards certain players to give us that little bit of something else, he did particularly well.

Manager Michael Carrick said Fernandes had given the team “that little bit of something else” when United needed it. Fernandes also came close to scoring from 55 yards after Ipswich lost possession, with goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen scrambling back as the ball landed on the roof of the net.

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Obviously it was a huge week and to end with a win at home today was massive.

After the final whistle, Fernandes discussed a pass with substitute Benjamin Sesko, greeted the opposing players and officials, and then returned to collect the match ball. “I hate losing and it is difficult to be positive when you lose games,” he told BBC Sport. “At this club you want to be on top of everything.”

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I hate losing and it is difficult to be positive when you lose games. It is very difficult for me to control the emotions. At this club you want to be on top of everything.