Bruno Fernandes was deployed in an unfamiliar left attacking role for Portugal, while Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee admitted he must play better to convince manager Michael Carrick.
Fernandes impresses in new position
Fernandes captained Portugal in their 2-1 win over Norway on Sunday in the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo. National team boss Jorge Jesus opted to use the 32-year-old in the left attacking role rather than his traditional central position in a 4-1-3-2 formation, with PSG's Vitinha taking over playmaking duties.
Despite his unfamiliarity with the role, Fernandes remained influential in Portugal's four Nations League victories. He completed all four of his long passes and had an 85% passing success rate, while completing six passes in the final third before being substituted in the 90th minute for former Arsenal star Nuno Tavares.
Zirkzee admits he must convince Carrick
Joshua Zirkzee has struggled for playing time at United this season, managing just 70 minutes of football. The 25-year-old was a late call-up to the Netherlands squad following Brian Bobbey's injury against Germany and scored in their 2-1 win over Serbia on Sunday.
Zirkzee had last played for his country in 2024 and admitted that receiving the call from Netherlands boss Xavi was a surprise. Speaking to ESPN, he said: "At the moment, that means I am mainly coming on as a substitute. And in the end, I have to do something about that myself, even if it isn't easy. Even so, it was still quite a big surprise that the coach called me up."
Pressure ahead of Tottenham clash
United narrowly clinched a 1-1 draw with Fulham four days after their Carabao Cup third round exit at the hands of Brighton. It has been a disappointing start to Carrick's first full season in charge, and a positive result against Tottenham on Saturday, October 11, will buy him some breathing room.
