Bruno Fernandes ruled out of Norway clash with injury concern

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been ruled out of Portugal’s Nations League meeting with Norway after revealing he has been playing through an injury.

Portugal manager Jorge Jesus confirmed that the midfielder will miss the League A4 fixture in Oslo after struggling with the problem for several matches.

Fernandes completed 90 minutes against Wales on Thursday but was replaced by João Neves in stoppage time.

Jesus opts against risking Fernandes

Jesus said Fernandes arrived in the Portugal camp carrying the injury and had been determined to feature against Wales despite the discomfort.

“He played with an injury he brought from Manchester United. He really wanted to play against Wales,” Jesus said.

“He wasn’t at his usual level, we’ll see if he’s ready.”

The Portugal boss subsequently decided against selecting Fernandes for the Norway game, with the midfielder instead carrying out recovery work in the gym.

Jesus revealed that Fernandes had been dealing with the pain for around three matches.

“He said he’s been dealing with that pain for about three games, and that was one of the factors that prevented him from being at his usual level against Wales,” he added.

Manchester United await Fernandes’ return

Portugal are hopeful Fernandes can recover in time for their meeting with Denmark next Thursday.

Jesus explained that protecting the midfielder was more important than risking him against Norway.

“He was my player, I know him perfectly. I’ve already spoken to him. I prefer not to risk him in this game and have him clean and in good physical condition for the Denmark game,” he added.

Man United are scheduled to return to Premier League action against Tottenham at Old Trafford on October 10.