Manchester United snatched a dramatic late victory at Selhurst Park on Sunday, with a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace that was sealed by a moment of cunning and surprise from captain Bruno Fernandes.
Mount's Unexpected Moment of Glory
The decisive goal came from midfielder Mason Mount, who was making his first start in over a month. However, the England international has admitted he was as shocked as anyone when the opportunity fell to him. From a promising free-kick position on the edge of the box, Fernandes took charge of the situation in an unexpected way.
Mount recounted the quick-fire conversation that led to the goal, explaining: "I said to him, 'I will roll it for you,' and then he said, 'You stay there.'" Mount, thinking of the low sun causing problems for Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson, urged his skipper to shoot. But Fernandes had other ideas, quickly repeating his instruction and rolling a subtle pass into Mount's path.
"You can see with my reaction... He obviously said it but really quick," Mount said. The clever, disguised set-piece caught the Palace wall off guard, and Mount's precise finish found the net, securing three vital points for Erik ten Hag's side.
United's Position and Upcoming Fixture
The hard-fought win at Crystal Palace moves Manchester United up to seventh place in the Premier League table. They now sit just four points behind their local rivals, Manchester City, who are in second. The result provides a significant boost ahead of their next match, a home fixture against West Ham United on Thursday.
Transfer Blow as Top Target Eyes City Move
While the on-pitch news was positive, United have reportedly suffered a setback in the transfer market. The club's pursuit of a key midfield target, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, is facing a major obstacle.
According to reports, Manchester City are now moving ahead in the race to sign the 23-year-old Scottish midfielder. It is suggested that City are escalating their interest to fend off competition from both United and Liverpool. Forest are believed to value Anderson at more than £80 million, following his move from Newcastle United last year.
A transfer in the January window is considered unlikely, but the battle is set to intensify next summer. United's midfield could see changes, with Casemiro's contract due to expire and ongoing speculation surrounding the future of young star Kobbie Mainoo. The potential sale of Mainoo could provide United with the funds to compete with City for Anderson's signature, setting the stage for a major transfer tug-of-war between the Manchester giants.
