Bruno Fernandes is Manchester United's most important player in today's FA Cup final – according to team-mate Casemiro.
Midfielder Casemiro may be a key man for United, but he hailed close friend Fernandes - who will lead the Red Devils out at Wembley – as the team's “engine”.
After United's 2-0 Carabao Cup final win over Newcastle, the pair were caught on TV having a heated exchange about a move that had broken down in the game.
Fernandes had gone for goal, instead of passing, but Casemiro said it showed the high standards both players expect from each other.
“When I arrived here, I was fortunate Bruno would always help me with the language,” said Casemiro.
“He taught me lots about the club and I have a very good relationship with Bruno, we get on really well. As you get to know him as a player – and I can say this with complete confidence - he's one of the most important players.
“We could spend all day talking about how good Bruno is, but - and I say this to him - I expect a great deal from him, because he's one of the most important players in the team.
“So when he misses a chance, when one of his passes goes astray, we always want him to do everything perfectly, but these are normal conversations.
“I've never had an argument with Bruno - the opposite, in fact. I just always demand a lot from him and he demands a lot from me, too.
“Behind the scenes too, sometimes we'll say to each other 'You could have scored, you could have done better there, because you've got the quality to do it'.
“He's an incredible player, someone who brings a great deal to the team, and it's a pleasure to play alongside him because, in the end, he's the driving force of the team, the engine.”
