Bruno Fernandes was sensational as he grabbed a hat-trick to inspire Manchester United into the last eight of the Europa League.
The 30 year old has been criticised this season by some former players such as Roy Keane but he has been sublime in the last few weeks.
The United captain has been simply stunning of late and has now scored six goals in his last six games.
The Portuguese was once again all over the pitch as he put in an attacking and defensive masterclass.
United got off to the worst possible start when a penalty was given against them but they responded immediately when Fernandes tucked away his first spot kick of the night with minimal fuss.
The Portugal international stuck away a crucial second penalty on the night when the Red Devils were awarded a second foul in the box after Patrick Dorgu was taken down.
The Portuguese magician rounded off a perfect evening when he broke free and was released by the bubbly Garnacho. Fernandes made no mistake with a clinical finish into the bottom corner.
Such was the impressive nature of Bruno’s night that he was given a rare score of 10 from Sofascore for his night’s work.
To go along with his goals, he had 87 touches and completed 80% of his passes.
Four of these were classified as key passes as he once again ran the show for his side.
He had four shots on target, one blocked effort and one that missed the goal as he put Alex Remiro, the Real Sociedad keeper, under pressure all night.
What makes Fernandes such a special player is for all his flair, he is also a grafter and he won five out of his seven ground duels.
He also won 100% of his aerial battles in an imperious display.
The United captain left the pitch to a raucous reception from the adoring Old Trafford crowd as the Red Devils soaked in another outstanding European night under the floodlights.
Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images
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Alex Browne
Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Proud owner of such niche shirts such as Kleberson, Eric Djemba-Djemba and Gary Neville. Grew up pretending to be Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the back garden, with little success.
