- Bruno Fernandes responds to Roy Keane
- Man Utd legend fumed with assist record celebrations
- The Portuguese playmaker is enjoying superb season
Bruno Fernandes has hit back at Roy Keane following the Manchester United legend’s criticism of his Premier League assist record. The Portuguese playmaker insisted it’s not something he “chased.”
Keane ridiculed the reaction to Fernandes reaching 21 assists in the Premier League this season. He equalled the all-time record in a single campaign shared by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry.
Fernandes has one more game to try to become the record holder. United face Brighton & Hove Albion on the final day of the season on Sunday (May 24th).
Fernandes responds to Keane
Keane spoke with bemusement over the praise Fernandes has been getting for his achievement. He said on this week’s episode of The Overlap:
“What do you get for being level with De Bruyne and Henry? nothing. What’s the priority when you play for (Man Utd)? The number one priority? Winning trophies.”
He added:
“He will not be winning trophies at United with that mindset from the players. They conceded two goals, and everyone’s getting giddy because he’s equalled a record for assists. It’s mind-boggling. It’s a circus act.”
Fernandes celebrated winning the FWA Player of the Year award on Tuesday. He was asked about Keane’s comments:
“It is not something that I will ever chase. I know people can have different opinions about me but they cannot say that I am not someone that looks to [help] the team and tries to make the team the most successful one. I will always try to win trophies and not individual accolades.”
Fernandes has always maintained his stance over his ambitions at United. He told Wayne Rooney just last month that the goal is to become a Premier League champion and win the UEFA Champions League.
Keane’s bitter assessment of Fernandes is nothing new as he’s constantly taken digs at the United captain. He previously claimed that the Portuguese playmaker isn’t a leader and questioned his character.
Taking the joy out of the game
Fernandes has enjoyed a superb season, and his assist record is just part of it. He has put United on his back with world-class performances, helping his team qualify for next season’s Champions League.
The 31-year-old has made 36 appearances across competitions, posting six goals and 22 assists. Keane’s response to the adulation he is receiving isn’t surprising but is ultimately dissapointing.
Players should be allowed to celebrate personal achievements without bitter club legends downplaying their contributions. Such criticism is taking the joy out of the game and fans have had enough of the likes of Keane, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes stirring up toxicity when the club is headed in a good direction.
