Piers Morgan has expressed his fury after Bruno Fernandes was named the Football Writers' Association Player of the Year, beating Arsenal's Declan Rice to the prestigious individual accolade. The outspoken broadcaster and Arsenal fan took to social media to label the decision as a 'farce' and 'ridiculous'.
Fernandes Rewarded for Creative Season
The Portuguese midfielder has enjoyed arguably his most creative campaign since joining Manchester United, topping several key metrics including assists. His consistent supply to teammates has been a standout feature, despite United's struggles early in the season. However, since Michael Carrick took over as manager, the team's form has improved dramatically, and Fernandes has been at the heart of that resurgence.
Fernandes becomes the first Manchester United player to win the FWA award since Wayne Rooney in 2010. He is the ninth United star to claim the honour, joining legends such as Eric Cantona, Roy Keane, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Rice's Case for the Award
Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal in 2023 for a club-record fee, has been instrumental in the Gunners' title charge. The England international has won 35 games this season, more than Fernandes has even played in (34). Rice has been a pillar in midfield and has stepped up in recent weeks to quell fears of a late-season collapse, with Arsenal currently holding a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table. He could yet finish the season as a Premier League and Champions League winner.
Morgan, an avid Arsenal supporter, quoted a tweet from another journalist who argued Rice was more deserving of the award, adding: 'Exactly. It's a farce.'
Carrick Backs Fernandes
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has defended the decision, praising Fernandes for his impact. 'With an award like this that's judged over such a long period of time, I think whoever gets it is fully deserving of it,' Carrick said. 'Bruno, this season that he's had, and certainly since I've been here, how he's performed and the impact that he's had on the group, has been fantastic. So yeah, fully deserved and delighted that he's got an award like that and he's one of ours.'
United currently sit third in the league, which would secure Champions League football next season. Fernandes' individual recognition adds to a strong finish for the club under Carrick.
