Bruno Fernandes provided 14 assists for Manchester United last season, followed by Paul Pogba with nine. Behind them was Fred with five.
This was Fred’s most productive season in an attacking sense, also scoring four goals.
The 2022/23 campaign has been more difficult, with Fred playing far less frequently, with new manager Erik ten Hag signing midfielders Casemiro and Christian Eriksen.
Last night against Charlton Athletic, Fred put in arguably his best performance of the season so far.
Fred creates four goalscoring chances
Fred provided the assist for Manchester United’s opener, picking out Antony in space out on the right.
Antony still had a lot to do, and no right to score from where he was, yet managed to do so anyway, cutting inside and curling the ball into the net.
This was one of four chances created Fred provided in the 3-0 victory, more than any player on the pitch.
The Brazilian might have played an even bigger part, but he was substituted after 60 minutes.
Fred came narrowly close to scoring a free-kick, beating the Charlton goalkeeper, only to see his effort rebound off the inside of the post. He has two goals this season, and was just about unable to add a third.
He completed 43 of 50 passes made, with 64 touches in 60 minutes, while also making three interceptions.
At the weekend he will likely be on the bench for the derby, but if he is called upon, Fred will certainly be ready, and could have a big part to play as the fixtures pile up.
Games like last night will help him a lot as he works to regain form and fitness, and next time, a free-kick might just go in.
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