EPL: Fernandes congratulates Martial after hat-trick against Sheffield

– The three goals were Martial’s first senior hat-trick in his career

– The Frenchman has now scored 19 goals in 36 appearances this season

– The win saw United narrow the gap between them and Chelsea to just two points

Bruno Fernandes has congratulated Antony Martial following the Frenchman’s historic hat-trick against Sheffield United on Wednesday night, June 25.

Martial struck thrice in the Premier League clash to guide United to a 3-0 win at Old Trafford to close in on fourth-placed Chelsea.

The 24-year-old netted the opener inside seven minutes of the encounter, before he doubled the advantage at the stroke of half-time.

He completed his hat-tick of the night in the 74th minute as the Red Devils marched to a comfortable win.

The treble of goals was Martial’s first in his senior career and United’s first hat-trick by any player since Sir Alex Ferguson retired seven years ago.

An elated Fernandes took to social media after the match to congratulate his close pal and teammate following the historic feat.

“Congratulations Anthony Martial on your first hat-trick wearing the Manchester United jersey,” Fernandes posted.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer entrusted Martial with the centre forward role and the Frenchman has staked his long-term claim having found the back of the net 19 times in 36 appearances.

Meanwhile, United’s win over the Blades narrowed the gap between them and Chelsea to just two points as they push for a Champions League slot.

Chelsea will be hoping to restore their five-point lead when they take on Man City at Stamford Bridge on Thursday, June 25.