Manchester United hold on to beat Brentford and close in on Champions League

By Simon Peach, Press Association Chief Football Writer

Manchester United moved within touching distance of Champions League qualification as captain Bruno Fernandes edged closer to the Premier League assist record in Monday’s 2-1 victory against Brentford.

Michael Carrick’s Red Devils increased their stranglehold on third with a hard-fought Old Trafford triumph against Keith Andrews’ Bees, giving them an 11-point lead over sixth-placed Brighton with just four matches to play.

Fernandes has been integral to United’s rise and impeding return to Europe, with the skipper setting up a 19th goal of the campaign as Benjamin Sesko scored after Casemiro continued his memorable farewell tour with a headed opener.

The Portuguese playmaker is now just one shy of the record 20-assist tally in a single season shared by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry.

Fernandes’ latest contribution helped settle nerves after unusually wasteful Igor Thiago threatened to level in an entertaining first half that saw United boast the clinical edge lacked by the visitors.

Brentford pushed as Dango Ouattara hit a post before Mathias Jensen’s long-range sparked a nervy conclusion, but Carrick’s side held out for a win that keeps them on course for Champions League football.