“It’s very special” - Bruno Fernandes receives record-breaking 5th Manchester United Player of the Year award | OneFootball

Fernandes with his United awards [Getty Images]

Bruno Fernandes has become the first player to win the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award for the fifth time at Manchester United's end of season awards.

Fernandes was recently named the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year in England, reflecting his outstanding form in helping United recover from their disastrous showing last year to secure Champions League football with time to spare this term.

The Portugal man has racked up 19 assists in the Premier League – one shy of the record held by Thierry Henry and Kevin de Bruyne – as well as contributing eight goals for the Red Devils. Fernandes’ performances have led some to declare he is enjoying his best season since moving to England from Sporting six years ago.

“Obviously I'm very grateful for that,” Fernandes said after winning the United award, which is voted for by the club’s fans. He also earned the Players’ Player of the Year, as expected, which is decided by his teammates.

“We all know we all play for our fan base, for our club, and obviously getting this award from them, it's always very special. I think the main thing that they give to us is the belief that we are capable to do big things and great things for the club. And I think when they have that belief in us, they push us to achieve big things every season.

“Obviously, we all know what's the aim for this club and to play for this club. And we know how much they want to see all of us succeed. And I think the belief they have in the players is the main thing, and special for me. That's the thing that stands out.”

United need just one point from their final two matches to be certain of securing 3rd position in the Premier League, which represents a huge improvement on last season’s dismal finish of 15th place. Fernandes admits being back in the Champions League was the aim coming into this campaign, even if it does not represent the club’s long-term ambitions.

“Obviously, we knew starting this season that our aim was to get back into the Champions League. We never hide from that, even knowing that we want more than that. But our first aim was to get back into the Champions League, as the club has always said.

“Of course, it's been a long time that we're not there, something that this club is not used to. And obviously, I think I talk for me, but for every player that is here, when you come to this club, you want to play in the biggest competitions. You want to compete for the high things. And obviously going into next season and having the opportunity of playing against the best teams in Europe is something great.

“To the fans? just a big thanks for everything they've done through this season. We had moments that were tough on us, but probably more tough on them. But they were always behind us. They always supported us. They always showed their love and their support and belief in ourselves.

“So a big thanks for all that they have done, but let's finish on a high note.”