Jamie Carragher told Roy Keane Manchester United needed one player to turn their fortunes around before they splashed out on Bruno Fernandes.
And the Portuguese has done exactly that, with the Devils the Premier League's in-form team, closing in on the top spot after 13 games played.
United signed Fernandes in January and the midfielder's impact was immediate, with the Red Devils climbing the table at speed and finishing a respectful third.
The Red Devils started this season poorly but have now finally found their rhythm, and Carragher believes Fernandes' impact is still pulling the strings.
"I remember having a debate with Roy Keane about how far United were away and sometimes one player can just spark something," Carragher told Sky Sports.
"At times for us at Liverpool, it was [Fernando] Torres who just lifted everyone, [Luis] Suarez did the same when he came.
"You're never as far away as you think and I think Fernandes has done that with United.
"If you look at United's record from when he came in to where they are now, third in the league just behind Liverpool, the actual run last season from January to the end of last season was fantastic as well. That's what one player can do."
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