Evra reveals Ronaldo impact on Bruno move; makes Man Utd prem claim

Ex-Man Utd favourite Patrice Evra has revealed the influence Cristiano Ronaldo had on Bruno Fernandes joining Man Utd, and has given his verdict on whether the club can challenge for the Premier League next season.

The Red Devils appear to be trending in the right direction after enjoying a superb second half to their season.

A remarkable unbeaten run post-Christmas helped to secure Champions League football by finishing third. While two-semi-finals were reached in the FA Cup and Europa League respectively.

Undoubtedly, the key cog in Man Utd’s resurgence was Portuguese sensation Bruno Fernandes.

After much wrangling, the 25-year-old signed on the dotted line late into the winter window.

His impact was immediate, but according to Evra, things may have been so very different had he and Fernandes’ international teammate Ronaldo not played their part.

Speaking to The Guardian (via The Mirror), Evra said: “When they wanted to sign Bruno Fernandes, Ole texted me. I asked for advice from Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Cristiano says: ‘Bruno’s a good guy and very professional.’ I say: ‘Ole, I’ve spoken with Cristiano. Let’s go for it.’

“And Fernandes had a massive impact. Without him I don’t think we would have qualified for the Champions League.”

Man Utd can’t challenge Liverpool or Man City

Despite finishing third, The Red Devils wound up a whopping 15 and 33 points behind bitter rivals Man City and Liverpool respectively.

Although Evra sees the obvious signs of improvement, he insisted it is too soon to think about a title tilt.

“United can’t challenge Liverpool or Man City. Not yet,” he added. “There’s been massive damage but we’re moving in the right direction.

“United have qualified for the Champions League. It’s not a big achievement but it’s massive progress from where we’ve come. I love Ole.”

Meanwhile, four Premier League sides have reportedly registered their interest in signing a forgotten Man Utd star this summer.