Journalist gives major Bruno Fernandes injury update after Man Utd star pictured with crutches

Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes' protective boot and crutches are just a "precaution", it has been claimed.

The Portugal international was pictured alongside a protective boot and crutches after being substituted in United’s FA Cup semi-final win over Brighton.

Fernandes was replaced by Wout Weghorst after 101 minutes of the match at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.

The midfielder appeared frustrated to be withdrawn and was seen barking orders at his team-mates from the sideline in the closing stages of the game.

And while United went on to win the encounter on penalties, the victory appeared to come at a cost, after reports emerged the 28-year-old had twisted his ankle.

Fernandes' partner Ana Pinho subsequently posted a snap of the United star on Instagram that added further fuel to the fire.

The United star was pictured lying on the sofa with his right foot raised up on pillows. A protective boot and crutches could be seen in the foreground while the image was captioned "recharging".

However, a Guardian journalist tempered United fans' fears regarding the fitness of Fernandes.

Bruno Fernandes injury update

On Twitter Jamie Jackson said: "Bruno F’s protective boot is a precaution, is da understanding…"

Fernandes was playing his 50th game of the season at the weekend, and has been a near everpresent for Erik ten Hag.

United are next in action on Thursday, when they travel to play an out-of-form Tottenham, and should Fernandes be fit it would come as a major boost for the Old Trafford club.

Ten Hag's men have already been hit by a series of injuries in recent weeks. Victor Lindelof played alongside Luke Shaw in central defence at Wembley with Maguire suspended and Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane injured.

While Varane may be fit to return for the FA Cup final, Martinez has been ruled out for the rest of the season with an injury he picked up in the club's 2-2 draw with Sevilla earlier this month.

Donny van de Beek has also been ruled out for the campaign with a knee injury, while Scott McTominay is out and Alejandro Garnacho is still feeling his way back.