The Wales boss is pleased with the work his former team-mate is doing at Old Trafford and, during our latest MUTV Group Chat, our special guest explains the qualities that make his compatriot James so valuable for club and country.
Meanwhile, Fernandes has arrived as a potential leader and the signing has drawn comparisons with Eric Cantona and Robin van Persie in the past.
“Dan's not only a talented player,” Ryan tells host Stewart Gardner, plus ex-Reds West Brown, David May, Ben Thornley and Danny Webber. “He’s a really good character and a solid lad. He wants to improve and that’s what I’ve seen over the last 18 months.