Since moving to Manchester United from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018, Fred has earned his fair share of criticism.

Even a few weeks ago, the Brazilian midfielder was left ruing a costly mistake that saw the Red Devils go behind to Leicester City, a game that they would eventually lose 3-1.

Despite that, the Brazilian could be crucial against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in what is sure to be an extremely competitive midfield battle. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer must recall him to the starting line-up as a result.

The 28-year-old midfielder has already made 38 appearances in all competitions for United this season, forging an impressive midfield pivot with Scott McTominay.

Whilst he has proven to be frustrating from an attacking standpoint having contributed just a solitary assist, he has slowly but surely become one of United’s most accomplished defensive midfielders.

Rated at £19.8m, Fred has contributed 2.4 tackles and 1.6 interceptions per game this season according to WhoScored.

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When compared with his Tottenham opponents, Fred comes out marginally on top. Former Southampton man Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who has earned considerable praise since his arrival, has averaged just 2.3 tackles and 1.4 interceptions in all competitions.

Meanwhile, Tanguy Ndombele does not get anywhere near those numbers with just 1.5 tackles and 0.6 interceptions per game.

If Fred then can continue that trend alongside McTominay in midfield, this could therefore see the Red Devils control the centre of the park.

This is likely to give the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba more attacking license, whilst it will also disrupt Spurs as they also aim to probe from midfield.

So whilst Fred has at points justifiably been criticised for his somewhat erratic performances at Old Trafford, the Brazilian must be squeezed into the starting line-up by Solskjaer against Tottenham.

AND in more news, take a look at the big transfer mistake Manchester United could be making in the summer...