Erik ten Hag sets the record straight on rumours of Bruno Fernandes leaving Manchester United

Erik ten Hag says comments suggesting Bruno Fernandes could leave Manchester United this summer were 'taken out of context' and he has no doubts that the midfielder will see out his contract at the club.

Last week, Fernandes suggested he wasn't certain to be at Old Trafford next season after admitting he would leave any decision on his future until have the European Championship this summer.

While many outlets focused on the possibility of the 29-year-old leaving the club, Fernandes also said that his future depended on whether United wanted to keep him, given it is them who would have to sanction a sale.

Speaking ahead of the trip to face Crystal Palace tonight, Ten Hag was asked about the suggestion the club captain could leave this summer and whether he wanted to keep him at the club. "Absolutely, but also I think that was also taken out of context," the United manager told reporters. Asked if Fernandes had explained the context of the comments to him, he added: "I didn’t even ask him, because I know. He is Manchester United and I think he is very happy to be here."

Fernandes currently has two years remaining on his current deal, which also includes the option for the club to trigger an additional year. When asked if he expected the club captain to see out the remainder of his contract, the United manager simply added: "Definitely."

The Portugal international was labelled a doubt to be involved in United's trip to Selhurst Park on Monday night, though Ten Hag insisted you could never rule him out of any match. He also went on to praise Fernandes for his commitment to the cause as well as his incredible availability since joining.

"Absolutely important, taking responsibility is one of the biggest assets top footballers have to show and deliver. Bruno is always available, miss never a game and always play in a good level and always getting energy to a team and such assets are necessary to be successful.

Asked if some other players don't fight quite as much as the club captain, Ten Hag refused to be drawn on the issue: "It is also a very subjective criteria. One is sure, Bruno is a real fighter. Last year for instance when we played Brighton semi final, we played with an ankle that was so thick, unbelievable. What is fair enough is that Bruno is a very good example for other players."