It's fair to say that Bruno Fernandes has been an incredible signing for Manchester United. Having joined from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 for a big fee as a relative unknown to many of the club's supporters, he has quickly justified that price tag.
The Portugal international has had a remarkable influence on the team, winning a number of games for United. While it probably won't happen this season, he has the fans believing that they can compete at the top of the Premier League for the first time since Alex Ferguson's retirement.
All of this had led to comparisons with Eric Cantona.
The Frenchman's arrival at Old Trafford in 1992 was seen as the catalyst for the glory years that followed. However, it remains to be seen if Fernandes can help bring similar honours to Manchester United.
Steve Bruce knows about Cantona's impact at the club, having been captain for much of that 1992/93 season that saw them end their long title drought.
Speaking ahead of Newcastle's meeting with Manchester United tomorrow, he said any comparisons between him and Fernandes remain premature until the 26-year old can lead the club to some major trophies.
What you have to judge people on over a period of time is what they've won. Certainly, Eric for us, was the catalyst to go and win things.
The way Fernandes has played in the last 12 months, it feels a bit like Eric because it's his stage. Eric adored everything that went with playing for arguably the biggest and best club in the world.
Fernandes has done fantastically well in doing that, it's his stage. For it to be even suggested that he's on the same hymn sheet as Eric is a wonderful compliment to him.
Now they have to go and achieve and win things the way Eric did, and on big occasions win cup finals and semi-finals. If he does that then of course you can compare him to Eric.
Manchester United's title challenge has faltered in recent weeks, leaving the FA Cup and Europa League as their only realistic chance at a trophy this season.
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