Manchester United duo Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes have been named in this week’s BBC Sport team of the week.
The pair both scored in yesterday’s pulsating 4-2 win against fierce rivals Leeds United.
The challenging conditions at Elland Road and playing in front of the boisterous Whites crowd once again, added even further spice to the highly-charged fixture.
Maguire opened the scoring against Marcelo Bielsa’s side with a bullet header from a Luke Shaw corner before Fernandes doubled the Reds’ lead with a header of his own on the stroke of half-time.
Ralf Rangnick’s side were stunned by an early onslaught by the hosts early in the second half which brought the scores level.
But unlike in recent months, the Red Devils showed their character and resolve to respond to adversity and to gain a crucial three points with goals from Fred and Anthony Elanga.
BBC pundit Garth Crooks has named Maguire and Fernandes in his latest team of the week.
Speaking on Maguire, Crooks said: “The England centre-back has been under severe scrutiny this season, taking a fair amount of stick as a consequence.
“However, the Man Utd skipper has not buckled under pressure. He’s also the occasional whipping boy for United’s poor performances, particularly when Paul Pogba is not on the field, but he’s not allowed it to get to him or affect his performances.
“His goal against Leeds epitomised his determination and character as he outfought Diego Llorente to nod home United’s opener.
“This was a big win for United and although they didn’t keep a clean sheet, Maguire played his part in an impressive victory away from home in atrocious conditions.”
Maguire’s second goal of the season was United’s first from a corner in the Premier League this season, which came at our 139th attempt.
Fernandes has now scored six Premier League goals against Leeds, more than he has against any other opponent in the top-flight.
In Manchester United’s history, only Bobby Charlton (nine) scored more goals against the Whites than our Portuguese ‘Magnifico’.
Giving his verdict on Fernandes, Crooks concluded: “Bruno Fernandes played throughout in very difficult conditions and was outstanding.
“He covered every blade of grass, scored a brilliant goal and demonstrated just what top-class players have to offer.”
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