Erik ten Hag has insisted it is simply a matter of time before Bruno Fernandes finds the back of the net for Manchester United again.
Fernandes is yet to score in eight appearances across all competitions this season and has not found the back of the net in his last 12 games at club level – a run which stretches back to late April.
With some even calling for Fernandes to be dropped from the United lineup, Ten Hag has offered his support to the club captain and backed him to start scoring soon enough.
“I think he is capable, and he has proven this so many years already in the Premier League that he can create many chances,” Ten Hag said ahead of Sunday’s clash with Tottenham. “I am convinced this season he will not do differently.
“He will come and respond, he will find his form and he is already creating chances, but he will make final passes, he will score goals 100% and it’s just a matter of time.”
Critical of his side’s effort levels in their recent 1-1 draw with FC Twente, Ten Hag insisted his side will have to give their all to get one over on Tottenham.
“I think it will be a very intensive game,” he stressed. “It is always against Tottenham.
“I think it is our style as well, so I think it is going to be a very dynamic, attractive game. Of course, every opponent has strengths and weaknesses and Tottenham have their strengths definitely. In their philosophy they are very clear, very attacking but that leaves also space, but that is what they take into account.
“Maybe that can help but you have to be very good against Tottenham. If you want to control the game, then you need again a high performance level and then we will create again, I am sure, and then it’s about taking your chances.”