78 touches, 100% dribbles, 3 chances created: £44m Man Utd star impresses in 1-0 win on Int'l duty

Portugal picked up a hard-fought 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in a World Cup qualifier yesterday.

Roberto Martinez’s side were clear-cut favourites to beat the Irish at the Estadio Jos Alvalade.

They dominated proceedings with 30 scoring attempts and eventually sealed the win in stoppage time.

Ruben Neves broke the deadlock after a lovely cross from Francisco Trincao from the right flank.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes did not make a direct goal contribution, but he had a solid outing until his late substitution in the 86th minute.

The £44 million-rated star had 78 touches with 53 out of 60 passes completed. He had four shots and created three chances. He won 100 percent of his dribbles.

The 31-year-old also made three recoveries with one tackle. Fernandes will be back in action when Portugal take on Hungary in their next World Cup qualifier.

United’s faithful will be hoping that he can contribute a goal or an assist, which would be a confidence booster before the derby against Liverpool next weekend.

The Red Devils returned to winning ways against Sunderland last weekend, but they face a daunting challenge against Arne Slot’s side at Anfield later this month.

United have not won at Anfield in the league since 2016. They have an opportunity to pick up a victory against a Reds side who have been defensively vulnerable.

The Red Devils ended a five-match goalless run at Anfield with a 2-2 draw last season.

Fernandes will have a crucial role to play next weekend. He will need to exhibit better control, now that he is operating in the number eight position for United.

Stats from Sofascore.com & Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .