Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag showered praise on Bruno Fernandes after they defeated Fulham 3-1 in the quarterfinal of the FA Cup at Old Trafford on Sunday. After a goalless first half, Aleksandar Mitrovic scored in the 50th minute for the Cottagers.

However, Fulham’s goalscorer and Willian received red cards in the 72nd minute and the visitors were reduced to nine men. The Red Devils were quick to take advantage as they earned a penalty in the 75th minute, which Bruno Fernandes converted.

Marcel Sabitzer then doubled the home team’s lead after two minutes whereas Fernandes gave a 3-1 lead to his team in the stoppage time.

Erik Ten Hag told Manutd.com: “Most of all I think Bruno Fernandes. He is the big leader, centre of the pitch, playmaking, [he had] a really good game and then finally he got his goal.”

The Dutchman feels his team should have taken the lead in the first half as they had their chances. The gaffer also showered praise on goalkeeper David de Gea for his impressive saves.

“We created great opportunities and at half time we should have been up because I can’t remember a save from David in the first half,” Ten Hag said. “And in second half, we came [into] difficulties out of the dressing room.

“It was tough. We conceded the goal from the set play and we needed David to survive the game because he had two great saves. And then the key moment it was a great attacking transition and really well done by Antony, really well done by Jadon (Sancho), and it was a clear and obvious penalty.”

Manchester United will face Brighton in the semifinal in April and they could also face Manchester City in the summit clash. However, the 53-year-old doesn’t want to think too far ahead and wants to take one game at a time.

“One thing is important: don’t think too far ahead, go from game to game,” Ten Hag reiterated. “I think we had a really massive run. From Christmas up, we had 25 games or so and I think two defeats, the rest draws and especially a lot of wins.

“You see the progress in the team. This team has a strong character, strong belief, a strong determination to win games. Today was an example of it. When you have a difficult period in a game, stay in the game, fight back and turn the game.

“We are definitely in the position we want to be. We battle for it, we deserve it, trophies will be won at the end of the season, we are in a position to win trophies.

Manchester United will next face Newcastle United at St James’ Park on 2nd April.