On Sunday afternoon, Manchester United continued their excellent start to life under Michael Carrick with a 2-1 win at home to Crystal Palace on matchday 28 of the Premier League season. 

The gaffer became just the second manager in the league's history to take 23 points (seven wins, two draws) from his first nine games after Ange Postecoglou with Spurs in 2023. Note: this includes two games from Carrick's interim spell towards the end of 2021. 

This win was not easy. The visitors took the lead after just four minutes, which was enough for them to be in front at the break. For a while, it looked like United might lose its unbeaten streak. 

However, as he so often does, Bruno Fernandes stood up. After goalscorer Maxence Lacroix was sent off for fouling inside the box, the Portuguese international calmly converted from the spot. 

Then, just eight minutes later, United's number eight whipped in a delicious cross to man of the moment Benjamin Sesko, who powered a header past Carrington graduate Dean Henderson to complete the turnaround. 

So, when the chips were down, Fernandes stepped up with a goal or assist to make sure of a crucial three points in the race for a UEFA Champions League spot. United now has a six-point cushion over sixth place. 

As a result of his excellent contribution, the midfielder has been nominated for the Premier League Player of the Matchweek award. He joins Beto of Everton, Mikkel Damsgaard of Brentford, Hugo Ekitike of Liverpool, Joao Gomes of Wolves, Diego Gomez of Brighton and Hove Albion, Gabriel of Arsenal, and Harry Wilson of Fulham as the nominees. 

Given that match week 29 starts as soon as tomorrow evening, the winner of this award will be announced soon. Maybe not today, but almost certainly tomorrow before the games have begun. Let's see. 

As for Fernandes this season, well, he just continues to be a level above. He has increased his lead in the Premier League for assists, with 13, and for big chances created, with 19. All with seven goals of his own on top. Just simply incredible numbers. 

This has all come after playing a huge part in the season as a midfield two under Amorim. Just imagine if he had been playing as a 10 all season under Carrick's management. The assist record (20) of Thierry Henry and Kevin de Bruyne would be under serious threat. 

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