PORTUGAL star Bruno Fernandes could have represented another country if his father had his way.
The Manchester United midfielder’s dad Jose wanted his family to leave Portugal but his son refused aged just 12.
Fernandes wanted to stay in his homeland because he thought the standard of football was better there and he stood an improved chance of making it as a professional.
But his dad, who also was a footballer, was keen for his family to emigrate to Switzerland, according to newspaper Blick.
If Fernandes did make the move he would have then been eligible to play for the Swiss national team.
Portugal take on Switzerland later today in the World Cup at the last-16 stage.
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Fernandes was perhaps correct when choosing to stay in Portugal as he was offered a contract at Boavista.
The 28-year-old then moved to Italy for spells at Novara, Udinese and Sampdoria before coming back to his nation starring for Sporting Lisbon earning him his big money transfer to Man Utd.
Portugal’s No.8 has impressed in Qatar netting twice and assisting a further a two goals as his side topped Group H.
Fernandes may even captain Portugal against Switzerland with former club teammate Cristiano Ronaldo potentially being dropped by Fernando Santos.
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The manager admitted that he was not happy with CR7 after he sulked when he was subbed off against South Korea.
A shock poll in Portugal revealed a shocking number of fans want him dropped for the huge game.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
