Erik ten Hag asserted that Manchester United “absolutely” wants Bruno Fernandes to stay following their 3-2 victory against Newcastle. This statement comes after Fernandes hinted at doubts regarding the club’s desire to keep him. Meanwhile, Newcastle’s Eddie Howe believed his team was denied a “stonewall penalty.”
During a post-match interview, Fernandes remarked, “I will be here until – the club needs to want me. I feel that the club wants me to be part of the future. As I always said, I don’t want to be a player the club doesn’t want to have. If for some reason the club doesn’t want me, I will go.”
When questioned about Fernandes’ comments, Ten Hag responded, “No, absolutely the club wants to keep Bruno.” Addressing why Fernandes might feel uncertain, Ten Hag added, “I have to see the interview, maybe [it’s] your interpretation, but everything I know from him, he loves Manchester United, the fans of Manchester United, and to play for Manchester United. He always gives his best and is an example, even with [his] injuries.”
Controversial VAR Decisions and Stellar Performances
“Bruno loves football and wants to win. That is how I would describe his character. I am very pleased with his performances. It is not easy when so many players are injured around him and he has to carry the team. He keeps in a good level and even a high level, especially in the spring, when he grew to a brilliant level.”
The home team scored through Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo, and Rasmus Højlund, while the visitors answered with Anthony Gordon’s equaliser and Lewis Hall in added time. At 1-0 in the 35th minute, Gordon went down in the area after Sofyan Amrabat slid a boot down his ankle. Robert Jones did not award a penalty, and the video assistant referee did not refer him to the screen.
Howe said: “I was surprised because I was watching it back and trying to see why Anthony went down – it is a stonewall penalty.” The incident came on the day Wolves moved to have a vote by all Premier League clubs to scrap VAR. Howe said: “I am the same as I always have been – I like the power being with the referee.”
Gordon added: “I knew straight away [it was a penalty], that is why I didn’t appeal. I waited for the VAR to check. I told my teammates it was a clear penalty. I don’t understand the point of it [VAR], either get rid of it or get better – it’s that simple.”
Pre-Match Incident Involving Marcus Rashford
Before the game, Marcus Rashford got into a verbal confrontation with individuals in the crowd near the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand by the tunnel. He approached the area, exchanged words, and then walked back, with Antony and Christian Eriksen stepping in to calm him down.
