'It's not fair' - Rasmus Hojlund defends Bruno Fernandes amid claims of bad relationship between Man Utd striker and captain

The Danish striker leapt to the defence of his team-mate amid concerning reports the pair had fallen out over a lack of service up front. In a new interview, Hojlund instead heaped praise on the creative importance of Fernandes to the United side, after the former Sporting Lisbon playmaker recently e hinted his future may lie away from Old Trafford.

Portugal international Fernandes is the Red Devils' leading assist maker in all competitions, tallying 11 in 45 appearances - six more than anyone else in the squad - to go with his 15 goals. The 29-year-old's most recent assist saw him tee up Hojlund's late strike in the 4-2 victory over Sheffield United at Old Trafford last Wednesday.

Speaking about Fernandes' assist against the Blades, Hojlund told BBC Sport's Football Focus: "I just want to tell him: 'Thanks for the ball, Bruno!'. I was very happy for him because he’s also getting a lot of criticism. It’s not fair because he’s doing everything at a top level all the time andhe’s an amazing captain."

Hojlund believes United can beat local rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 25 after they scraped past Coventry in the semis. Erik ten Hag's side surrendered a three-goal lead against the Championship outfit before winning on penalties. Hojlund, who converted the winning spot kick at Wembley, added: "We have a chance to win the cup. It’s my first chance to win silverware. For me, this is a big game and I think we have a good chance to do something special now for the rest of the season."

Hojlund and Fernandes will be itching to impress when United resume Premier League action against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park next Monday. Qualification for next season's Europa League is high on the agenda for the Red Devils, who currently sit sixth in the table and one point ahead of Newcastle. However, Ten Hag says Fernandes is a doubt for the fixture in South London after picking up a minor injury in the 1-1 draw with Burnley.