:focal(1337x373:1339x371)/origin-imgresizer.tntsports.io/2026/02/07/image-467a3457-051e-4231-92c0-d5a81eea9525-85-2560-1440.jpeg "Carrick lauds ‘big moments’ player Fernandes as his goal seals United victory over Tottenham - TNT Sports")
Bruno Fernandes delivered when it mattered for Manchester United once again after executing a fine finish to seal a 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. Fernandes brilliantly guided home an unorthodox finish past Guglielmo Vicario, giving caretaker boss Michael Carrick four wins from four games as United chase a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Michael Carrick waxed lyrical about Bruno Fernandes after Manchester United overcame Tottenham Hotspur with a 2-0 win at Old Trafford.
The caretaker United boss hailed his skipper’s versatility and ongoing habit of producing in the "big moments" after a brilliant, improvised finish to seal victory on Saturday.
Fernandes was also involved in Bryan Mbeumo’s opener, playing a corner short to Kobbie Mainoo, who, in turn, laid the ball on a plate for the Cameroonian to guide a finish past Guglielmo Vicario.
This result ensured Carrick’s side claimed a fourth successive win, as they aim to secure UEFA Champions League football for next season.
When asked about Fernandes’ influence, Carrick told TNT Sports: "It would take a long time to sum it up. He’s offered the club so much in the time he’s been here, since he walked through the door.
"He played different roles for us today. He ended up on the left and scored his goal on the left.
"He’s a team player, he gives so much to the group, he’s got big moments in him, we know the quality he has, and he cares a lot about the football club."
Carrick also singled out first-team coach Jonny Evans for his role in that well-orchestrated United opener, adding: "Jonny has been doing a lot of work with the players so that is the reward for that."
It has been a remarkable recent turnaround at Old Trafford, and Fernandes believes Carrick "could be a great manager".
"I think Michael came in with the right idea of giving the players the freedom to take responsibility on the pitch to do the decisions that were needed," Fernandes said.
"I think he remembers what I told him the last time he was manager. I think Michael could be a great manager, and he’s just shown it."
The Red Devils only have the Premier League left to focus on this season and now turn their attention to a match away at West Ham United on Tuesday night - live on TNT Sports and discovery+.
When asked about the pros and cons of only competing in one competition, Carrick replied: "It kind of works both ways sometimes. Sometimes the rhythm of games can help, sometimes it gets a bit heavy, it can hinder you.
"We’ve got another big game on Tuesday night, then rest, recoup and sharpen up after that."
Meanwhile, the former United midfielder remained tight-lipped about his future and explained: "It’s not for now. To get carried away as a supporter is where you should be, that's why they come to support us, to dream and get carried away."
As for Tottenham, this result leaves Thomas Frank’s side in the bottom half of the table and at risk of being dragged into a relegation battle.
They will be without skipper Cristian Romero for four games after the Argentine picked up his second red card of the season following a late lunge on Casemiro.
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Frank’s injury woes were also compounded after full-back Destiny Udogie was forced off 10 minutes into the second half.
Tottenham are back in action on Tuesday when they host Newcastle United - live on TNT Sports and discovery+ - before facing bitter rivals Arsenal on February 22.
Watch the 2025/26 Premier League season on TNT Sports and discovery+
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