Gary Neville suggests reason Fred has fallen out of favour at United

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Gary Neville has suggested that he has some ‘insight’ as to why Erik ten Hag hasn’t been playing Fred lately.

Speaking on The Overlap, Neville suggested the reason as to Fred’s exclusion. He said, “He’s left Fred out for the last few months because he wants Eriksen.

“I’ve got a little bit of an insight into why Fred’s not playing, Sabitzer is playing because he can hold [the ball].”

He went on to explain that ten Hag wants to control the ball and dominate possession, something he can’t do with Fred.

“Sabitzer, Eriksen, Fernandes – he wants players who can take the ball. Every manager wants that.”

Fred isn’t a typical ten Hag midfielder and offers less on the ball and more in his tenacity and how he creates ‘chaos’.

Neville believes United can win the FA Cup

Neville also went on to promote his hopes in United stopping the City treble charge, talking of the gameplay he hopes to see.

“I think United have got a chance. I’m not saying they’re going to win – I don’t feel that confident – but I’ve booked my tickets, I’m going down, and I’ve got a little bit of hope that tradition and history will look down on us.”

Neville added that in order to win, United must respect City and set up in a solid manner.

“We can’t press City high and basically think we can keep possession off them and expose our centre-backs. So I think we’ve got to make sure we’re a little bit more thoughtful in the game. Be in it with 15 or 20 minutes to go.”

He continued to say that if anyone is like to stop the City treble charge, it will be United. Displaying little faith in Real Madrid’s chances.

“I think United have probably got more chance than Real Madrid. I think United in a one-off game at Wembley. The centre-backs will be back, I’m hoping they’ll be back by then and we’ve got players fit,”