Fernandes created the first-half winner struck by Benjamin Sesko for the 2-1 triumph at Old Trafford.
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Bruce said on talkSPORT: "There's been this debate about him over the years… I have to say he's been the outstanding player for Man United for the last four or five years.
"Absolutely, there's times he's carried this club along which is a big big weight on your shoulders. But he never disappoints.
"He gives everything he's got. He plays every week. I know we can be a little bit sensitive at times, we all can, but he produces."
Victory on Monday solidified United's hold on third-place in the Premier League standings.