Christian Eriksen's absence for Manchester United during Sunday's 0-0 draw with Newcastle has shown just how important the midfielder is for Erik ten Hag.
It was a disappointing performance from United at Old Trafford, as they failed to capitalise on a handful of opportunities that should have seen them claim all three points. Ten Hag's side were left to rue their missed chances as both Marcus Rashford and Fred spurned great moments to win the game for the Reds.
Fred's first-half performance against the Magpies would not have done anything to convince his manager that he deserves a place in the starting XI anytime soon. The Brazilian should have put United 1-0 up after Rashford timed his run to perfection to beat the offside trap, take the ball past an onrushing Nick Pope, before picking out the midfielder in front of an open goal.
