-
Bruno Fernandes explains decision to give penalty to Marcus Rashford after Manchester United beat Everton.
Bruno Fernandes revealed that he handed the penalty-taking responsibility to Marcus Rashford during Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Everton because Rashford “needed a bit of confidence.”
The decision raised eyebrows as Fernandes, United’s captain and regular penalty taker, opted to give the ball to Rashford after VAR awarded a penalty for a foul on Anthony Martial by Ashley Young.
Rashford successfully converted the penalty, scoring his second goal of the season and contributing to Manchester United’s victory at Goodison Park. Fernandes’ gesture was aimed at boosting Rashford’s confidence, and it proved to be a successful decision for the team.
Explaining his decision, Fernandes told Sky Sports: ‘Because Marcus needed a bit of confidence, he needed his goal.
‘He is an excellent penalty taker. I was sure he could score that penalty and Marcus did it perfectly.
Explaining his decision, Fernandes told Sky Sports: ‘Because Marcus needed a bit of confidence, he needed his goal.
‘He is an excellent penalty taker. I was sure he could score that penalty and Marcus did it perfectly.
And while he looked confused by it on the sidelines, Ten Hag hailed Fernandes’ selflessness, telling BBC Sport: ‘At first I was wondering why it was not a penalty. So obvious. Happy we got the penalty.
‘We have some very good penalty takers. You see also how great captain Bruno is. He assessed his team-mate needed that goal.
He has the confidence in Rashy, who is a good penalty taker. As a team you need that leadership that you back each other.
‘There you saw the captaincy – he knew a player needed the goal. It will help him and give him extra strength.
‘Our three offensive players scored. That’s what we need. It will help us as a team.’