When Fred lined-up alongside Scott McTominay in Manchester United's first game of the season last month, many supporters felt a a familiar sense of disappointment. Despite Christian Eriksen accompanying the pair in midfield, Erik ten Hag's trio were dominated by Brighton and slumped to an opening day defeat.
The entire summer was spent chasing Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona, who was expected to come in and solve a number of issues that United had failed to sort for several years. The Dutchman, evidently, did not arrive at Old Trafford. He never even looked close to moving.
So, against Brentford, Ten Hag made a change. The United boss opted to drop McTominay and play Fred alongside Eriksen, with the London club, much like Brighton did, going on to dominate the centre of the park. After the full-time whistle, questions were asked as why United hadn't solved their midfield issue.
