Manchester United talisman Bruno Fernandes has paid tribute to departing Portugal manager Fernando Santos.

The veteran coach was let go by the Portuguese FA after their World Cup quarter final exit at the hands of Morocco.

The 68-year-old coached Portugal to a trophy, winning Euro 2016 in remarkable fashion against France in the final.

“It was an honour to have a coach and a person like Fernando Santos at the head of the National Team," a statement from Fernandes reads.

“The FPF thanks Fernando Santos and his technical team for the services provided over eight unique years and believes that this thanks is also made on behalf of the Portuguese people. The FPF Board will now begin the process of choosing the next national coach."

“Many thanks to mister Fernando Santos. Thank you for the opportunity to represent our country and for the trust in us the past few years," Fernandes posted on social media.

“As a Portuguese, thank you for putting Portugal at the top of Europe and returning confidence and belief to a 'small' country that it was possible to be among the 'big ones'.

“Moments of glory and joy and others of sadness and frustration, but history was made and will forever be marked in the hearts of all Portuguese."