There was so much to digest in the fallout from Manchester United’s crucial 2-0 Champions League win over Villarreal that Fred’s dominant midfield display largely drifted under the radar.
He started the game under some pressure, having been dropped against Watford at the weekend by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for his final game in charge.
Michael Carrick chose to recall the Brazilian though, slotting him back into the heart of the midfield along with Scott McTominay.
The decision of the caretaker United boss could have been influenced by his own playing career. Carrick was, of course, an elite and accomplished midfielder who perhaps just has a greater understanding of the midfield role, certainly in comparison to his predecessor.
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