Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has conducted his press conference ahead of Manchester United’s crunch clash with Liverpool.
Solskjaer faced the media at the briefing, which was broadcast at 1.30pm on United’s official app.
He was asked about the fitness of his squad and there were updates on Fred, Anthony Martial and Bruno Fernandes.
Solskjaer also took the opportunity to praise the Brazilian midfielder, who has come in for plenty of criticism throughout his time at Old Trafford.
“I hope I can pick from a fully fit squad, but it might be that I’m without two or three,” said Solskjaer. “Bruno might be a doubt but he’s doing everything he can to be fit. I can’t say if Fred will be fit or not.”
On Fred, he added: “Fred is a very good player, a regular for Brazil. He’s got an exceptional personality and attitude. He’ll give everything he can to be there for us.
“He’s sharp, he’s nimble, he gets to players, he tackles, he’s never afraid. The development he’s made in the almost three years I’ve been here now has been great to watch.
Speaking to the club website, he added on Martial: “I’m not going to rule anyone out. Anthony is still working on his fitness, hopefully he’s come through today and let’s see how he is tomorrow.”
Fred gets criticism for not being creative enough on the ball or scoring enough goals.
Central midfield is the area United need to upgrade next but Solskjaer loves having Fred’s energy in there.
Paul Pogba may well come back into the side if Fred cannot make it for the Liverpool game.
That would give United more midfield craft, but detract from the energy in the middle of the park, and Solskjaer is clearly keen to keep Liverpool guessing about the make-up of his team.
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