Bold claim made about Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah

Bruno Fernandes was the hero as Manchester United defeated Real Sociedad in the Europa League round of 16 second-leg clash at Old Trafford yesterday.

The Portuguese midfielder netted a hat-trick to help United secure a quarter-final meeting with Lyon. He has now registered seven goals and two assists in his last eight appearances at Old Trafford.

Despite United’s disappointing season, Fernandes has been one of their standout performers, alongside injured Ivorian forward Amad Diallo.

Journalist Mark Ogden has claimed that the 30-year-old has been as influential for United as Mohamed Salah for Liverpool.

Ogden told ESPN FC: “It’s incredible. Ruben Amorim made a great point last weekend when asked about Bruno Fernandes.

“Not only does he deliver on the pitch, but he is also always available and rarely gets injured.

“No matter the situation or what his teammates are doing, he always turns up, and that’s exactly what United need. I’m not sure they’ll have the money to buy a player of his calibre this summer.

“If he gets injured, I don’t know where the goals, leadership, or creativity will come from. He is leading United through a dark period in their history while still producing outstanding performances.

“We know Mohamed Salah will win the Footballer of the Year – he’s had a fantastic season for Liverpool.

“But in terms of what a player has done for his club, Fernandes has been as good as anyone this season.”

United need consistency from Fernandes to win the Europa League

Before scoring in yesterday’s match, Fernandes had only registered one goal in the competition, highlighting his inconsistency.

Two of his goals against Sociedad came from the penalty spot, and manager Amorim will need more from his captain in open play.

United cannot rely solely on forwards Alejandro Garnacho, Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund for goals.

With their only realistic chance of silverware and Champions League qualification resting on winning the Europa League, United need Fernandes to continue delivering.

Stats from transfermarkt.com.