OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has hailed Fred as one of the unsung heroes behind Manchester United’s resurgence.
The Brazilian midfielder was widely regarded as a £52million flop.
Fred’s performances during Pogba’s absence have been a revelationCredit: Getty Images – Getty
But he has now formed a powerful partnership with Scott McTominay at the heart of United’s midfield.
And it means Red Devils boss Solskjaer has not really missed crocked £89m record buy Paul Pogba as much as he may have first feared.
United hope to have Pogba back from a bad ankle injury before the end of the year.
But Fred, 26, in particular, has been a revelation having struggled since joining from Shakhtar Donetsk in the summer of 2018.
Solskjaer said: “Fred’s had the confidence of the coaching staff, me and players all the time, this form is down to him.
“He’s been working really hard and he’s already grabbed it with both hands when Paul got injured.”
It is also questionable if United fans will see Pogba turn out for their club again.
There are now doubts if Solskjaer actually needs him or whether he fits into the plan of a young enthusiastic team who want to play for the club.
Fans are beginning to take to Fred despite his difficult first year Old TraffordCredit: Getty – Contributor
French World Cup winner Pogba, 26, said in the summer he wanted a new challenge and there has been no evidence on or off the pitch that position has changed.
Real Madrid still want him, and if they can find £100m, they probably could get him.
Pogba, will miss his 15th straight game tonight after ten weeks on the sidelines when his side take on AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League at Old Trafford.
It was thought the group finale would provide a perfect opportunity for him to make his comeback two weeks after he returned to training.
But Solskjaer insisted it was still too early for him to play.
This is despite Pogba posting videos on social media of him training in Dubai and Miami and even playing basketball during his time ‘rehabilitating’ from his injury.
Solskjaer said: “It’s too early yet. He’s working hard to get fit so hopefully we can get him back on the pitch.
“For me he’s one of the best players in the world and we’re looking forward to having him back.”
Two big wins against ex-boss Jose Mourinho’s Spurs and neighbours City have lifted the mood at Old Trafford. Solskjaer added: “Results are the proof in the end but inside we’ve always believed in what we’re doing.
“It’s ups and downs but we are on the right track.
“I see these boys every single day in training with the attitude and skills and quality they’ve got, I’m not worried.”
Tonight’s game will decide who tops Group L with Dutch side Alkmaar and United already through.
United need just a point to finish top and avoid the stronger sides dropping down from the Champions League in the last 32.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
