In the number 8 jersey, Bruno Fernandes scored his first-ever goal for Manchester United.
The goal against Southampton was the deciding factor, helping United to a second straight victory and its first away triumph since February.
It also brought an end to Fernandes’ extended goalless streak, and it did so in a game in which Harry Maguire was once again benched.
Juan Mata, the player from whom Fernandez stole the number 8 shirt, applauded his efforts.
Mata praises Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes volleyed United’s winner into the net early in the second half before the team dug in to keep a clean sheet, with new signing Casemiro coming on to help the team close out the game.
Casemiro is now wearing Fernandes’ old 18 shirt, with Fernandes taking the 8 after Mata was released.
Mata is still a free agent since his release from Manchester United. He is expected to pick a club soon, to continue his career.
United meanwhile are now picking up, with two wins in a row lifting the team, for now, back into the top half of the table.
The team will attempt to make it three wins on the bounce away at Leicester City on Thursday night.
