Ole Gunnar Solskjaer picked out Fred for praise after his tireless contribution against RB Leipzig.
The Brazilian was effective in helping United win the ball back and re-distribute it, and it was his off the ball work which particularly impressed his manager.
Solskjaer said he was pleased with the efforts from all four of his starting midfielders, who made life tough for the German side.
Solskjaer told the club website: “The work off the ball was incredible from all four of them. That’s the basis of the team.
“If you work and work and win the ball in good situations to create chances. Fred covered every single blade of grass on that pitch.
“I just hope he recovers for the next one. The squad is good and gives us options – 4-3-3, a diamond, 4-2-1-3 or whatever we want to call it.”
Crucial to United’s win
Solskjaer was half-joking about Fred’s fitness. There will be the usual routine tests to make sure he is up to speed for Sunday’s game.
But Fred showed last season he is relentless in terms of his fitness.
He played 90 minutes in every single Premier League game between October and March last season.
This included the hectic festive schedule, and was particularly valuable considering the injury crisis which meant United depended on him.
Right now United have a wealth of options and Solskjaer can give Fred a rest if they want him to or feel it necessary.
There is real competition for places in midfield, and up front, and having four midfield spots makes it easier for the manager to pick his players.
Fred touched the ball 72 times in total, more than any United midfielder.
He was deserving of Solskjaer’s praise, and while he can be better in possession of the ball at times, his efforts in winning it back are crucial to helping his teammates out.
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