Manchester United captain says the team “want to finish the season in the best way possible” ahead of next fixture against Chelsea
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has not shied away from admitting his side’s shortcomings following yet another frustrating Premier League loss, this time at home to West Ham.
Speaking to MUTV after the match, the Portuguese midfielder gave his assessment of the team, saying that they struggle in attack and then fail to defend their box when it matters.
“We created enough opportunities to score goals and to be in front in the result,” said Fernandes. “Then when you don’t score, you end up conceding in a moment where we were in full control of the game.
“It’s been happening a lot for us, we’re in control, can’t score and then you concede a goal from a little bit of a scramble in the box.
“We know we need to improve in the Premier League, be more aggressive, get much more into their box, be more dangerous, be more effective.”
United have faced troubles in attack this season, keeping possession but lacking a cutting edge. That pattern has been majorly responsible for the disaster that their campaign has been.
It was evident against a struggling West Ham side. United had moments of control but then these were followed by a general lack of incision going forward, and when they did get there, poor finishing.
The lapses in concentration then meant that West Ham were able to convert their own chances while United moped. One moment in the second half was particularly telling: when defensive midfielder Ugarte lost the ball but remained on the ground while his own 18-yard box was plundered, Mohammed Kudus, Aaron Wan Bissaka and Jarrod Bowen combining to double West Ham’s lead.
Before the Europa League final on 21 May, United will go to Stamford Bridge to face Champions League-chasing Chelsea, and Fernandes insists that there is still pride and purpose in finishing strong.
“We have some days to recover, to prepare well for that game,” said the United captain. “We know it’s going to be a very tough game but we want to finish the season in the best way possible.
“So, we need to go to Stamford Bridge and do that, to get the best result there.”
