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Wayne Rooney has chosen a surprising Manchester United player as his pick for the most improved performer in this season’s Premier League and expressed his joy for Bruno Fernandes’ exceptional campaign.

Fernandes set a new Premier League record for the highest number of assists in a single season, registering 21 across the campaign. This achievement surpassed the previous joint record of 20 held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry.

The Manchester United captain was also honoured as the Premier League Player of the Season after his outstanding performances guided the Red Devils to a comfortable qualification for the Champions League.

Although several Arsenal players were in contention for the accolade following Mikel Arteta’s side clinching their first league title in 22 years, Rooney felt the award rightfully went to Fernandes.

“I am delighted for Bruno,” Rooney stated during his BBC podcast. “He has been outstanding this season.

“For me, he’s been the Premier League player of the year because of his influence, his determination, and the goals he’s contributed. He’s truly been the heartbeat of that team.”

Rooney further identified Fernandes’ teammate Luke Shaw as the Premier League’s most improved player this season.

He elaborated, “For me, Luke Shaw has been the most improved player this season.

“I know he’s an experienced player now, but his performances this season have reached a much higher level than in previous years.

“Some might mention Kobbie Mainoo, but I don’t think that’s about improvement—it’s more that he wasn’t getting opportunities under the previous manager, so it wasn’t really a matter of form.”

While it’s not entirely clear whether Rooney realised he could include players from teams beyond Manchester United, he did go on to name an Arsenal star as his signing of the season.

Rooney said, “I think Viktor Gyokeres.

“Granit Xhaka has been excellent for Sunderland, but when you look at what Gyokeres has added to Arsenal, it’s precisely what they needed.

“After finishing second for the past three seasons, he’s given Arsenal something different, and that’s played a significant role in their Premier League triumph.”