An unexpected Manchester United player has been described as the “best in the world” at one aspect of the game after Rio Ferdinand praised him as “phenomenal” following the win over Ipswich.

United fell behind against Ipswich before responding emphatically with five goals of their own. The Tractor Boys managed a late consolation, but the Red Devils still ran out 5-2 winners.

Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick, while Bryan Mbeumo got one and the other came through an own goal.

Although Fernandes was the headline performer, Manchester United legend Ferdinand chose to focus on another Red Devils player while speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents: Lisandro Martinez, even though the defender was caught in possession in the move that led to Ipswich’s second goal.

The former centre-back said: “Martinez, by the way, we conceded two goals today, but what I would like to talk about is his ability on the ball.

“I would go as far as to say Martinez is the best centre-back on the ball in the game right now.

“I’m trying to think of someone else better who can break the line with passing, who can beat the press when someone comes to him and just move it, take the ball in tight areas; Martinez takes some beating.

“He was phenomenal on the ball today in terms of his passing, like top tier.”

Bruno Fernandes pleased with Manchester United display

The standout performer was clearly Fernandes, and the United captain said he was delighted with both his own contribution and the team’s overall showing.

He said after the match: “We were in control of the game and then conceded the goal, lost a bit of control after that but then got back into the game, scored just before half time and in the second half we were brilliant. We need to be hungry to score more goals.

“It is a great accolade for myself but it is together with the team because I couldn’t do any of that without them helping me.

“Obviously it was a huge week and to end with a win at home today was massive.

“I said before the game to be honest, there are certain days you feel it. It is one of those days when everything comes to you and you have to take it.

“We have to do it in both ways, when we lose we can’t get carried away with the negative things. I hate losing and it is difficult to be positive when you lose games because at this club you want to be on top of everything and win games. It is very difficult for me to control the emotions.”