Ruben Amorim highlighted this Thursday the impact of the absence of captain Bruno Fernandes, who is injured and could be sidelined for a month, in anticipation of the next round of the Premier League, in which he will host Newcastle. «It is impossible to replace Bruno Fernandes, and I told the team that», said the coach of the «Red Devils» at a press conference, which took place on Christmas Day. The Premier League 18th round game, at Old Trafford, is the only meeting scheduled in England for Friday on the traditional Boxing Day (December 26). «He is not only a fundamental player in creating opportunities, but also crucial in set pieces», the Portuguese coach also highlighted about his compatriot. Remember that Bruno Fernandes, 31 years old, had to be replaced last Sunday in the duel against Aston Villa (2-1 victory for the Villains), after suffering an injury to his right thigh and the time out could be around a month. The Portuguese international's injury is a further setback for United, who have been hit by a wave of casualties including Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt and, most recently, Kobbie Mainoo. Manchester United, which also has Portuguese international Diogo Dalot, remains in seventh place in the championship with 26 points, three points below the qualifying zone for European competitions, and Newcastle is even further below, in 11th place, with 23 points. In the last six direct clashes, Newcastle have won five, but Ruben Amorim was confident of a victory: «We can win any game. We have some problems, but even without many players at the moment, I believe in the team and I trust in the players. If we are focused, we can win.”
