Manchester United: Bruno Fernandes hailed by Portuguese media for 'innate quality' in Mexico draw
Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes carried his recent good form over into Portugal's 0-0 draw away in Mexico on Sunday.
The pair met in Mexico City in a friendly ahead of this summer's World Cup, but ultimately played out a goalless draw with little in the way of attacking quality at either end of the pitch.
Nevertheless, Fernandes has been hailed for the role that he played in his team's creative play in their latest fixture, even if he and his teammates were ultimately unable to breach the Mexican defence.
The 31-year-old has received rave reviews from the Portuguese media after the game, similar to the reports that have been coming from the English press after a string of strong performances of late.
Manchester United's next clash sees them take on bitter rivals Leeds United in the Premier League, and it is clear that their captain has still been on the top of his game while he is away with his country.
Bruno Fernandes rated among Portugal's best yet again
Fernandes has been a key player for both club and country in recent years, and he is now about to represent Portugal in his fifth major tournament.
He earned his 86th senior cap for the Selecao against Mexico, with Roberto Martinez's side stepping up their final preparations before they jet off to North America this summer.
| Stats | Fernandes Total |
| Minutes | 81 |
| Accurate Passes | 36/44 (82%) |
| Chances Created | 5 |
| Shots | 2 |
| Passes into Final Third | 5 |
| Duels Won | 2/6 (33%) |
However, Fernandes and Co. were not able to break the co-hosts in their friendly meeting, despite the best efforts of their ever-reliable creator.
The United star created a staggering 5 chances across his 81 minutes on the pitch, and set up the best opportunity of the game for his team when his cross was glanced against the post by Goncalo Ramos in the 27th minute.
While Portugal's efforts ultimately came to nothing, Fernandes' display certainly hasn't gone unnoticed by their media, who have outlined the star as their strongest player against Mexico.
A Bola handed the former Sporting CP man a 6/10 rating, while indicating that he "never gets tired," and showed his "innate quality" throughout his time on the pitch.
Goal rated the attacking midfielder even higher with an 8/10 rating, while adding that he would have left the pitch wondering "what more he could have done."
Man United plan Fernandes contract talks
Football Insider revealed earlier in March that United are planning talks with Fernandes over a new contract after this summer's World Cup is out of the way.
The influential star is expected to have his full focus on helping his country to glory in the first half of the summer, before the Red Devils then intend to sit down and discuss his future upon his return.
He is due to enter the final year of his contract at Old Trafford this summer, but it has become clear that Champions League qualification could play a big role in keeping hold of Fernandes.
The financial benefits that come with a top-four finish could prove invaluable for United when it comes to reaching a deal, especially since the player would likely have several suitors if he did decide to look elsewhere.