Sunday 19 February 2017 13:27, UK
Fernando insists Manchester City's failure to get past Huddersfield in the FA Cup on Saturday had nothing to do with changes made to the side.
City must replay their fifth-round tie against the Sky Bet Championship side after being held to a goalless draw at the John Smith's Stadium.
With Tuesday's Champions League clash against Monaco in mind, manager Pep Guardiola made eight changes for the game, but Fernando dismissed that as a factor to give credit to the hosts.
"I don't think that influenced us," Fernando said. "We train every day and we listen to what our manager says, it didn't affect us.
"Maybe some players didn't get into the rhythm but we played well. Unfortunately we didn't score.
"We had chances and, of course, we wanted to score and win but they played well and the result was difficult for us.
"We knew they were a good team, we watched their games and knew their qualities. They are third in the Championship, so we knew they were going to be difficult."
City's changes included a start for top-scorer Sergio Aguero after three games as a substitute, but the Argentina international was out of luck in front of goal, being denied by Huddersfield goalkeeper Joel Coleman.
Another returning player, Claudio Bravo, did make a key contribution with two good saves from Rajiv van La Parra and a Jack Payne free-kick.
The sides will now meet again at the Etihad Stadium on February 28.
"We must now focus on the replay of this game," Fernando added. "Our target is to win as many trophies as possible and we are still alive in three competitions."
