Bruno Fernandes has bizarre boot ritual that could explain why he is so good for Man Utd

Bruno Fernandes has revealed that he has his football boots steam-pressed ahead of training and matches, unlike any other Manchester United player.

The Portugal international is the star man in Michael Carrick's United side and enjoyed an incredible season that saw him win the PFA Player of the Year award, along with various other individual honours.

Fernandes already has four goals and one assist from the first four matches of the new season and will hope to be the catalyst once again when United face Manchester City in the Manchester derby on Sunday afternoon.

The secret behind his success could even lie in the way he prepares his boots for action.

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Bruno Fernandes has bizarre pre-match boot ritual

United captain Fernandes has revealed the bizarre boot ritual he undergoes before every match, although he played down the impact it actually has on his level of performance.

Ahead of the first Manchester derby of the new season, Fernandes spoke to social media content creator Niko Omilana about his match preparations and why he has his boots steamed before use.

"I need them warm," he told Sky Sports. "It's too cold outside. They get softer, that's why, but I like also that they get warm."

When asked if the steamed boots made him play better, Fernandes downplayed their significance, although he did point out that the ritual helped him feel more relaxed.

"I wouldn't say that, but it helps me to be comfortable, that's for sure," he added.

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Michael Carrick must manage Bruno Fernandes carefully

Fernandes will play a key role when United face City in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, although he could soon be handed a rare rest in midweek.

The 32-year-old has played every second of the season so far, including the entirety of the midweek win over Sabah in the Champions League, but could be given the night off against Brighton in the Carabao Cup next week.

Speaking in his latest press conference, Carrick defended the decision to use Fernandes whenever possible, although he admitted the midfielder would need to be managed carefully during what will be a gruelling season.

"We only had five subs! We had to make certain decisions on what that looked like," said Carrick. "But, of course, he's like anybody else. He has played an awful lot, but I think we're developing the group and the squad to be able to accommodate that in different ways."

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