‘He is back producing’ – Van Nistelrooy hails influential star after comfortable win over Leicester City

Ruud van Nistelrooy hailed Bruno Fernandes’ influence after Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Leicester City in the Premier League.

It was Van Nistelrooy’s final game as interim manager and his future at the club is up in the air, with Ruben Amorim set to decide on whether to keep him in a coaching capacity, as one of his assistants.

Fernandes scored his first goal in the Premier League – as his fourth in four games under Van Nistelrooy – with an opening strike. He went on to create two more in a spirited 3-0 win over Leicester City.

The third goal was scored by Alejandro Garnacho, who came off the bench 10 minutes into the second half.

The result means United stay in 13th place with 15 points, three points adrift of the top five.

Bruno Fernandes shines against Leicester City

Van Nistelrooy spoke to BBC Sport after the match and hailed his captain after a match-winning display: “It was professional, you could see that players were fighting through the game. We scored two great goals and there were some good bits but we didn’t have real control of the game.

“It was an important three points. In the four games Bruno scored some important goals, assisting too so he is back producing. That’s the Bruno that is helping the team the most.

“I spoke to Alejandro Garnacho before the game, he has played a lot of minutes and I wanted him to make an impact off the bench and I’m glad it worked out. We said ‘let’s make the most of these four games’, get the maximum out of it and I think we did an OK job.

“I really enjoyed it, it’s been a short but amazing period. We are in an uncertain position but we tried to do our jobs and help the club which is important.

“There are a lot of feelings there, the way the fans supported me and the team always in difficult moments it was a special moment. To close down this block of games with good results and a good connection I can’t thank them enough.

“We will learn what the further plan is now.”

It was a memorable game for Fernandes regardless of his goal contributions. He made his 250th appearance for the club and inspired Van Nistelrooy’s side to a much needed victory.