Fred proves everybody wrong and Ten Hag right with one of his best Manchester United performances

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Fred was one name nobody expected to see on the Manchester United team sheet against Tottenham after a disappointing display against Newcastle.

Even if Christian Eriksen was not deemed fit enough to start, it had been expected that Ten Hag would look to bring back Scott McTominay, returning from suspension, rather than start Fred again.

Erik ten Hag showed why he is the manager, by making the big call to start Fred and getting it absolutely right.

The Brazilian had one of his best performances in a Manchester United shirt as the Red Devils overpowered Tottenham from start to finish.

Fred proves everybody wrong

Fred has been a squad player this season, and this did not look like changing after his uninspired performance against Newcastle at the weekend.

Last night showed there is still a chance he can be more, as he settled back into his partnership with Casemiro which is so effective for Brazil.

Under the Old Trafford lights, United were inspired, and Fred was everywhere, especially in the final third, where he was given license to roam forward.

He missed a couple of chances in the first half, but United created so many that Fred got more opportunities than the solitary one header he got against Newcastle. Eventually he got his goal.

Fred broke the deadlock at a crucial moment, early in the second half, with the help of a deflection. But he was in the right place at the right time, and his on-target effort made it’s own luck.

Soon afterward he had a key role in United’s second goal, when his effort bounced into the path of Bruno Fernandes, who scored. Fred’s industry and willingness to get forward helped make it possible.

With United struggling to score recently, it had become imperative for the team’s midfielders to step up and contribute.

Given a second chance in a week, Fred simply had to perform, and this time he did, playing a key role to help United secure all three points, and throw himself into contention to retain his place against Chelsea this weekend too.