Hojlund and McTominay will get all the credit but United star who created 8 chances deserves the plaudits

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Manchester United’s players are on a real high right now after a vital victory away at Aston Villa.

An unbeaten start to 2024 continued for Manchester United away at Aston Villa, winning a difficult fixture against a strong team.

It was the first time an Erik ten Hag side had won away in the Premier League against a ‘top nine team’, making up for the 3-1 loss at Villa Park last season.

United’s goals were netted by Rasmus Hojlund and substitute Scott McTominay, who have earned plenty of praise for their contributions.

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Bruno Fernandes pushed Manchester United on

Team captain Bruno Fernandes played a deeper role than he usually does, helping ensure the midfield of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo was not overrun by Villa’s trio of John McGinn, Boubacar Kamara and Douglas Luiz.

While the Portuguese star did not add to his tally of seven goals and seven assists, it was not for a lack of trying.

Fernandes created more goalscoring chances than any Manchester United player has done in a game this season, with eight in total.

Many of his key passes came from corner kicks, with Fernandes’ deliveries presenting opportunities, with United proving stronger in the air.

United’s opener came from a Fernandes corner, when Harry Maguire headed his cross into Rasmus Hojlund’s path, who scored through Emiliano Martinez’s legs.

Chance creation is a consistent part of Fernandes’ game. Per Squawka, Fernandes has created 187 chances in the Premier League since the start of last season, 18 more than his nearest competitor.

Against Villa his creativity was matched by his work rate, while his adaptability was also vital.

Fernandes makes way to the right

Fernandes was switched out onto the right wing late on to accommodate Scott McTominay in an attacking role.

It was a match-winning decision from the manager, with McTominay powering in a header from a Diogo Dalot cross.

Fernandes has single-handedly won many game for United since his 2020 move from Sporting. This was a game where he did not grab the headlines, yet played a vital role in a more under-stated way, and that deserves plaudits too.

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