Paul Parker wants Erik ten Hag to start Fred over “moaning” Bruno Fernandes at Manchester United
Former Manchester United ace Paul Parker wants to see Fred start over Bruno Fernandes for the Red Devils. The defender, who donned the famous red shirt for five years, believes the Brazilian deserves an opportunity over the Portugal international.
Fernandes has featured in every game for United. The Portuguese has even been handed the captain’s armband with Harry Maguire on the bench.
On the other hand, Fred has seen less and less game time since the start of the season. The Brazilian has not been able to convince the gaffer of handing him a starting berth.
However, speaking to BeMyBet (h/t Manchester Evening News), Parker insists Fred should be given an opportunity in the team. He talks of the Brazilian’s defensive nous to make his point.
“Fred, at this moment in time, deserves the opportunity to play. He is a really good player.
“In my opinion, he should play instead of [Bruno] Fernandes who is moaning and waving his arms at his teammates all the time. With Fred on the pitch, you will get someone who is quicker across the floor, someone who is very clever in how he defends.”
After a poor start to the 2022/23 campaign, Ten Hag decided to make a few changes to the side. The Red Devils lost to Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford to start the season. Fred was in the starting XI on both occasions.
However, since then, the 29-year-old has not gotten into the team to be able to play the full 90 minutes in the Premier League.
United also made a few additions to the squad in the recent transfer window. Christian Eriksen and Casemiro were signed to bolster the middle of the park. And the two have evidently added more competition for places in the Dutch manager’s team.
While Fernandes does cut a frustrating figure at times, the 28-year-old is still one of the best players in the squad. Since his arrival in January 2020 to the Manchester-based club, the Portuguese has proved his worth.
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Fred has been at United for several years now. However, the Brazilian has been unable to convince fans of his qualities. And the 29-year-old has not shown enough to get into Ten Hag’s starting lineup.