Fernandes has lifted the mood at Man Utd, says Solskjaer

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Bruno Fernandes has lifted the mood at Old Trafford, comparing the January signing to a mix between former Manchester United players Paul Scholes and Juan Sebastian Veron.

Fernandes arrived for an initial 55 million euros and, while that could rise to 80 million euros if a variety of targets are reached, United look to have struck a good deal.

The Portugal international has impressed in all three United starts to date, following up fine displays against Wolves and Chelsea with a goal and an assist against Watford.

Successive wins have lifted United into fifth place in the Premier League table as they push for Champions League qualification.

"He's given everyone a boost," Solskjaer said of the 25-year-old Fernandes.

"It means more than just getting a player in. You can see the supporters, they're used to players with that personality, mentality and quality so he's been a big plus.

"He's come in from day one, the first minute, and felt like a presence in the group. First training session, demanding the ball.

"Some players take some time in warming up but he felt confident straight away.

"He's a bit of a mix between (Paul) Scholes and (Juan Sebastian) Veron, to be fair. He's got the temperament maybe of Veron and a lot of the quality of him and Scholesy."
"I am delighted with the week Anthony's had," Solskjaer said. "He has got his critics and I am one of his biggest probably because I keep demanding different stuff from him."