Rio Ferdinand has questioned Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag's decision to leave Fred out of his starting line-up for Sunday's 2-0 defeat by Newcastle United at St James' Park.
Currently without both Christian Eriksen (injured) and Casemiro (suspended), United's midfield options are limited, meaning the Dutchman selected loanee Marcel Sabitzer and Scott McTominay to support Bruno Fernandes in his trademark three-man midfield.
It was clear from the opening exchanges that United were fighting a losing battle in the centre of the pitch and were being dominated in that area by their hosts.
Bruno Guimaraes, Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock controlled the midfield proceedings and United did not have the energy or intensity to keep up with the Magpies trio.
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