Bruno Fernandes: ‘I want to get numbers with trophies, not goals’

Bruno Fernandes is pleased to have registered his 50th goal for Manchester United, but says it counts for little until the club start winning trophies.

The Portugal international fired in an early opener for United in Monday’s routine 3-0 victory over Brentford to reach the half-century mark.

He has now been involved in 61 Premier League goals since his debut in February 2020, a tally bettered only by Mohamed Salah (73) and Harry Kane (65).

While Fernandes has impressed for United across his two years at Old Trafford, the 27-year-old has yet to lift any silverware.

And as another trophyless campaign edges to a conclusion for the Red Devils, Fernandes has set his sights on putting that right.

“I am obviously happy but those numbers don’t count,” Fernandes told Sky Sports when asked about reaching 50 goals. “I want to get numbers with trophies and not with goals.”

Fernandes’ goal was his first in nine appearances since scoring against Leeds United in February.

Cristiano Ronaldo added a second from the penalty spot, having earlier had one ruled out for offside, and Raphael Varane rounded off the scoring with his first United goal.

United won 35 points at Old Trafford this season, four more than they accrued on home soil in the 2020-21 campaign.

This latest victory gave interim boss Ralf Rangnick a winning send-off in his final home game, helping to quash a supporter walk-out planned for the second half.

“This was our last game of the season at home so we wanted to give a good result and good performance,” Fernandes said.

“We know our standard has not been the same as we expect but last game of the season we finish well at home. Now we have more games to go so focus on those.

“We know that we always have to give something. The fans have been amazing supporting us. 

“We know that our season has not been at the level it should be but there is nothing we can do now but finish in the best way possible, win games and after, think of next season.”

United conclude the 2021-22 campaign with trips to Brighton and Hove Albion and Crystal Palace.