Man Utd target Fernandes destroys Liverpool defense with desire to play in PL

If this was to be his last game in a Sporting Lisbon shirt then Bruno Fernandes would have impressed his potential new suitors against their most bitter of foes.

The Sporting captain, valued at £70million, has been the subject of interest from Manchester United throughout this summer and he certainly would have caught their eye in Wednesday night's 2-2 friendly draw against Liverpool during their pre-season tour of America.

It didn't take Sporting's No 8 long to make another impact in the match as the goalscorer turned provider to level the scoreline at 2-2 following Divock Origi and Wijnaldum's first-half strikes.

Deployed on the left of an attacking midfield three in a 4-2-3-1 formation, the Portugal international found himself up against Trent Alexander-Arnold - arguably the world's best right back based on last season. 

Despite the lack of width Fernandes was still managing to find pockets of space wherever he went.

When on the ball, Fernandes provided an instant spark. His distrubtion was excellent for the most part, always seeming to make the right decision and looking to play forward. When Fernandes did wish to drift infield he would collect the ball from deep and drive from midfield, turning defence into attack so quickly while using the ball efficiently.

If questions were to be asked about how he would handle the rigours of Premier League football - due to his slight frame - then he allayed any concerns with a piece of strength to fend off Fabinho, which resulted in the latter hauling him down. Then at the end of the half he showed his work-rate with an impressive piece of defending. 

Speaking before the match, Fernandes reiterated his desire to play in England.

'Will this be the last match for Sporting? I don't know, it's the coach who decides,' he told A Bola. 'I've said I'd like to play in England.'

United are currently in China on their pre-season tour. Speaking on Wednesday manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he would be happy with his squad if no more additions would be made. On evidence of this pre-season encounter across the world - he may have to reconsider.