Fernandes named in Portugal squad for Denmark clash after injury scare

Bruno Fernandes has been named in Portugal’s official squad for their Nations League clash against Denmark, offering Manchester United a timely fitness boost after the captain sat out Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Norway in Oslo.

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus had confirmed after the win over Wales that Fernandes would miss the Norway game, revealing the midfielder had “played with an injury brought from Manchester United.” The understanding is that the two clubs have been in communication throughout the international break, with United keen to manage his workload — though that caution was not entirely reflected in his recent minutes, which included playing the full 90 of United’s 4-0 Champions League win over Sabah.

Jesus was candid about his decision to rest Fernandes ahead of the Denmark fixture. “He really wanted to play against Wales,” the coach said. “He said he’s been dealing with that pain for about three games, and that was one of the factors that prevented him from being at his usual level against Wales. I’ve already spoken to him. I prefer not to risk him in this game and have him clean and in good physical condition for the Denmark game.”

Fernandes is not the only United player to emerge as an injury concern during the break. Patrick Dorgu hobbled off for Denmark with a hamstring problem and has since returned to Carrington for assessment. Noussair Mazraoui was also forced off — replaced by Achraf Hakimi — though the severity of his apparent back issue remains unknown.

There is more encouraging news on the wider injury front at Old Trafford. Amad appears to be nearing a return after missing the entire season so far with an ankle problem, with the winger dropping a comeback hint on social media following head coach Michael Carrick’s admission that he hoped to have him back in training during the domestic pause.

Matthijs de Ligt and Manuel Ugarte remain the club’s long-term absentees. Ugarte is expected to miss the majority of the season, while de Ligt has not featured in competitive football for ten months.