Manchester United were once again in real danger of throwing away yet more Premier League points at the weekend when an unlikely hero stepped off of the bench and out of the shadows.
With United having squandered a two-goal advantage to old rivals Leeds and subsequently seen the game spiral into chaos, eyebrows were raised as Ralf Rangnick opted to replace the impressive Paul Pogba with Fred on 67 minutes.
However, his bold decision was rewarded as the Brazilian proved to be United's savour.
The much-maligned midfielder crashed home the all-important third in his side's thrilling 4-2 triumph to keep their top four charge on track and provide another glimmer of hope in an otherwise miserable season for United.
Following his feat at Elland Road, Fred has now chipped in with three goals this campaign as he continues to set about shaking the aforementioned 'unlikely hero' label.
In fact, given his form over recent months, it wasn't altogether unsurprising to see the 28-year-old prove himself to be United's match-winner once more.
Under Rangnick, Fred has enjoyed a renaissance, showing far more flashes of his undoubted ability which led to Old Trafford bosses coughing up £47million for his services back in 2018.
His decisive cameo against Leeds on Sunday hasn't been the only occasion he's played a crucial role in determining a cagey Premier League encounter this season, either.
Back at the beginning of December, the Brazilian's fine strike against Crystal Palace earned his side a precious three points and Rangnick a first triumph of his short-term United tenure.
Not only has Fred added goals to his game this season, but his all-round play has been more disciplined and has been markedly improved under Rangnick.
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His individual display in United's 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge at the end of December was simply outstanding.
In fact, so impressive has Fred been in recent months that his performance against Leeds even warranted praise from perhaps his most vocal of critics, former United captain Roy Keane.
Finding himself alongside ex-Ireland team-mate Robbie Keane in the Sky Sports studio on Sunday, Roy lauded Fred and joked about his previous criticisms.
"That comes from a little bit of confidence, little bit of swagger back," Keane stated. "And it's nice to see because he's been heavily criticised.
"Fred's obviously improved his end-product over the last few months. Fred's been criticised, by Robbie!
"Again, he's added a couple of goals to his game, a couple of assists. About time for him!"
The plaudits speak volumes about Fred's recent resurgence given Keane had previously slammed the midfielder as not being good enough for United following the club's dismal defeat to rivals Manchester City back in November.
"Anyone who tells me Fred is good enough for Manchester United is living in cuckoo land. And that is an important part of the football pitch," he said.
"If Ole walked in here now, I'd grab him and say "why are you playing Fred" in the middle of the park for Manchester United."
And it wasn't only Keane who was full of praise for the Brazilian, with fellow United team-mate Bruno Fernandes referring to him as a "really important" player.
The Red Devils' midfield has been widely condemned in recent times, with many calling for the club to complete an overhaul in that area of the pitch.
It remains to be seen who will take up the managerial mantle at Old Trafford come the summer, and what they have planned for United's squad, but Fred is certainly staking a claim as an integral member of their midfield going forward.
It appears his promise is finally being fulfilled.
