Former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand lavished praise on Bruno Fernandes after the Red Devils' skipper played a significant role in the 2-2 draw against Everton. He took shots against critics who called Bruno a 'problem' earlier this year.
Roy Keane was one of the former players who said that Fernandes was not doing enough work on the pitch despite being talented. He was on the overlap when he said:
"Save us? They're 15th in the league and he's saving them? Praise the lord. You have to have a starting point. I go back to it all - talent is not enough. Bruno's a talented player, but talent's not enough."
Fernandes again managed to appear on the scoresheet during the draw with Everton, before Iliman Ndiaye scored an equalizer for the Toffees. Mason Mount scored an amazing goal to give Manchester United the lead in the 69th minute but an own goal from Ayden Heaven saw Everton get level.
Ferdinand was fast enough to take a cheeky shot at Fernandes' critics after the 2-2 draw and posted:
Manchester United have one more pre-season game left against Fiorentina on August 9 at Old Trafford. It will mark David De Gea for the first time since he left the side in 2023 after the expiry of his contract.
Bruno Fernandes angry at Manchester United's 'lazy' approach
Bruno Fernandes said that Manchester United were not playing at their level best against Everton, believing that they were lazy on the pitch at times. He added that it cost them the game and told NBC Sports:
"It's been important for developing how we want to play and getting the new players involved. We didn't want to finish in this way. Our performance wasn't the best and we were a little bit lazy. We want to avoid that because with laziness you can pay at any moment."
Although, he is feeling confident that they are improving and will perform better than last season. He added:
"It's improving. But it's not the place it needs to be. I don't want to take a dig at anyone, but the club is doing the best they can in terms of the financial situation they talk about. But it was crystal clear we needed more competition for the players that were here, more quality to get everyone to step up a little more to get to the XI. Hopefully, we can get one or two players more to help with that."
Earlier this summer, Bruno was linked with an exit with Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr showing interest. However, he rejected both Saudi Pro League sides as he plans to stay at Manchester United.