Amid the changing of the season, there has been a core of consistency at Manchester United under Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman has had to make the most of his squad options to keep his side battling on three fronts as we head into the business end of the campaign, though it is clear that he has a group of favourites.
He will have to make do without a few of them tomorrow night when United travel to Sevilla in search of a victory to book their place in the final four of the Europa League.
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Bruno Fernandes will miss out through suspension, while Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane will miss out through injury.
For a variety of reasons, United have had to cope without key players throughout the campaign. Yet, amid all of the illnesses, injuries, and suspensions, two players have remained ever-present for Ten Hag.
It is perhaps no surprise that David de Gea has been included in every competitive matchday squad this season, playing in 47 of a possible 51 matches across all competitions.
But it is somewhat of a surprise to realise that the only other player to achieve that feat is Fred. He has also been named in every matchday squad this season and has played a part in all but six matches of the grueling campaign.
There is of course an element of luck that he has remained injury-free when many of his teammates haven't, but it still says a lot that he has been selected every single week by his manager.
Prior to the weekend trip to Nottingham, the same was true of Tyrell Malacia. He has only made 33 appearances this season, but has now only missed out on one squad call-up.
When looking at the success of United's season, it is easy to overlook the understated duo, but their regularity and professionalism haven't gone unnoticed by Ten Hag.
Fred is the self-proclaimed 'piano carrier' and is under no illusion that he is not the most talented player in the United squad, but that hasn't altered his mindset at all.
The best players do not always make for the best team, and just as important as United's star performers this season have been the unsung heroes who are happy to wait their turn and perform when their side has needed them.
What is peculiar in the case of Fred is that despite his supporting role this season, he has played a key role in many of their outstanding wins.
He was arguably the best player in the October win over Tottenham, he subdued the threat of Kevin De Bruyne in the home win over Manchester City and he was labelled a 'mosquito' by Ten Hag after superbly man-marking Frenkie de Jong in the second leg win against Barcelona.
Yet, even with Fernandes suspended for tomorrow's clash, it would be a surprise if Fred were to start the game, with his recent role largely limited to that of an impact substitute.
Fred has not started any of the last five matches for United and has only started three of the last ten in all competitions. It says a lot, though, that he has appeared in them all at some point.
He won't mind, though. The 30-year-old is happy to help however his side needs him, and whatever role he is required to play tomorrow, you can guarantee that he will give it his all.
He might not be their best player, but he is still one of their most important.
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