Ahead of the eagerly awaited Europa League final, former Tottenham star Paul Gascoigne has lauded Bruno Fernandes, calling the Manchester United captain an “extra manager” on the pitch due to his leadership and influence. Gascoigne highlighted Fernandes’ ability to organize players and provide direction, praising his role as a standout performer this season.
Fernandes, the 30-year-old Portugal international, has once again been the driving force behind Manchester United’s campaign. Despite the club’s overall disappointing season in the Premier League, where they are set to finish with their lowest-ever points total, Fernandes has accumulated eight goals and nine assists in 35 appearances. His contributions extend beyond domestic league performances, as he has also played a crucial role in United’s progression to the Europa League final, scoring seven goals and providing four assists.
However, individual achievements will mean little if United are unable to secure victory against Tottenham in the final, with Champions League qualification hanging in the balance. The match, scheduled to take place at the San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, could be a pivotal moment for both teams.
In an exclusive preview for Tribal Football, Gascoigne spoke highly of Fernandes, pointing out his exceptional work rate and leadership skills. “I like him. He’s got some engine and I like when he’s playing,” Gascoigne said. He emphasized Fernandes’ ability to guide his teammates, comparing him to an additional manager on the field. “He’s also organizing players and telling them where to go. It’s like having an extra manager, but he’s on the pitch,” Gascoigne remarked.
While praising Fernandes’ individual qualities, Gascoigne also acknowledged the importance of this competition for both teams. He noted that a win would provide much-needed energy for either side, particularly with Champions League qualification on the line. “Both teams need to win this competition, I think just for a bit of a buzz,” Gascoigne said.
As Gascoigne discussed the season’s struggles, he also expressed his hopes for former Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou. Gascoigne, who won the FA Cup with Tottenham in 1991, believes Postecoglou should continue as manager if Tottenham comes out on top in the final. However, he speculated that Postecoglou might be under pressure, possibly facing the sack, as he feels some players have let him down this season.
“I think the whole team can hold their hands up, they’ve had a bad season,” Gascoigne concluded, acknowledging the disappointing performances from both Manchester United and Tottenham, who find themselves in the lower half of the Premier League standings.
The match in Bilbao offers both teams a chance to redeem their disappointing campaigns, with the Europa League trophy serving as a potential morale booster and a gateway to the Champions League for the victorious side.