BRUNO FERNANDES has revealed why he handed over penalty duties to Marcus Rashford at Everton.
Manchester United romped to a 3-0 win over the Toffees this afternoon to move sixth in the Premier League table.
Marcus Rashford slotted home a spot-kick in Man Utd’s win at EvertonCredit: Getty
Skipper Bruno Fernandes handed over penalty duties to the forwardCredit: Getty
Alejandro Garnacho stole the headlines with his incredible overhead kick after just three minutes.
However, after Anthony Martial was fouled in the area by Ashley Young, the Red Devils were handed the opportunity to double their lead from the spot.
Captain Fernandes, 29, is United’s regular penalty taker, but he surprised everyone by handing over responsibility to his 26-year-old team-mate.
And his faith in the forward was rewarded when he rifled home in the 56th minute before Martial wrapped-up the victory.
Rashford produced a career best 32 goals in all competitions last term to finish at the club’s top scorer.
But he had scored just once in 16 appearances in all competitions for the club this season before the trip to Goodison Park.
His form has been a major concern for boss Erik ten Hag and the club’s supporters.
And his skipper was desperate to try and help him rediscover his scoring touch.
When quizzed by Sky Sports about giving him the penalty, Fernandes said: “I felt Marcus needed confidence, needed his goal.
“Marcus is an excellent penalty taker too. I’m sure he could score that penalty.
“It’s not about who takes it, it’s about scoring that penalty, and Marcus did it perfectly. Strikers, wingers, they want to score goals, they need to score goals.
“That’s part of the game, it gives you a boost. I think after the penalty, Marcus was unstoppable, he could take on everyone.
“I think sometimes you need this chance, this opportunity, to get your confidence back. He’s been great for us.”
When Ten Hag was asked how much Rashford needed his goal, he said: “A lot.
“You see also how great captain Bruno is. He assessed his team-mate needed that goal. He has the confidence in Rashy, who is a good penalty taker.
“As a team you need that leadership that you back each other.”
