Breaking News: Bruno Fernandes has told Manchester United one player they need to sign this summer

In the midst of ongoing contract negotiations, Man United captain Bruno Fernandes has lauded custodian Tom Heaton’s leadership.

Bruno Fernandes (right) is pleased to have seen Tom Heaton included in England’s plans for Euro 2024. (Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images.)

Tom Heaton, a teammate at Manchester United, has received congratulations from his captain, Bruno Fernandes, on being named in England’s plans for the European Championship in Germany this summer.

The Football Association [FA] revealed on Monday that Heaton has joined the team as a training custodian for the duration of the competition. Along with Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale, and former United custodian Dean Henderson, the 38-year-old will offer support and direction.

James Trafford was left out of England boss Gareth Southgate’s plans when he announced his 26-man roster for the competition last week. The 33-man provisional squad included the Burnley goalie as one of four goalkeepers.

Heaton, who is still in negotiations with United on a new deal, has three senior caps for England in his career. He last played in a June 2017 3-2 loss to France. Since then, he has been a part of squads, most recently being on the bench six times in 2019.

Heaton hopes to have an effect as a coach even though he won’t be playing for the Three Lions this summer. He will assist the three goalkeepers Southgate has chosen and bring a wealth of expertise to the table.

“I am really happy that Tom has agreed to join us in Germany,” Southgate stated. Our goalkeeping team, led by Martyn Margetson, may face significant demands during a tournament, based on past experience.

“On the training pitch, Tom will be a huge help to Jordan, Aaron, and Dean. As a person we all know well off the pitch, he will contribute to the pleasant atmosphere we constantly strive to establish. We appreciate Manchester United’s assistance in making this possible.”

Heaton, who last played for United in February 2023 when they began the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final victory against Nottingham Forest, is proud to be included in the squad, even if it is only as a coach.

Heaton posted on Instagram, writing, “Very honoured that Gareth asked me to join the team. Receiving the invitation to attend a significant competition, offer assistance where I can, and share my knowledge is an honour. We have a fantastic team, and I’m eager to get started.”

Fernandes responded to Heaton’s article with the following statement: “Great leaders are always welcome in any place. Big man, congratulations.”

Fernandes’ admiration for Heaton and his capacity for leadership demonstrates the lasting impact the 38-year-old has on the United squad. The veteran is still an important member of the team even though he did not play in the most recent campaign.

He has supported United since he was a young lad and would be open to taking on a coaching position with the team following the conclusion of his playing career. But as his contract negotiations with United demonstrate, he has no plans to retire just yet.

Heaton is highly esteemed by Fernandes, who understands the value of having someone with Heaton’s character in the team. This is evident when it comes to Heaton’s desire to reach a new contract deal with the Reds. It has never harmed a club to have a changing room full of characters and strong personalities.