Man Utd’s £52m flop Fred last played a through ball to team-mate in April as damning stats show Brazilian’s lack of creativity
MANCHESTER UNITED midfielder Fred has not played a through ball to a team-mate since April.
The damning stats highlight the Brazilian's lack of creativity, with just a single goal and two assists since moving to Old Trafford for £52million in June 2018.
Fred’s last through pass to a United team-mate came against Barcelona in a 1-0 defeat in April.
On that occasion the ex-Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder played in striker Marcus Rashford.
Fred’s last assist came against Southampton last season as his deflected pass set up Romelu Lukaku in United’s 3-2 win at Old Trafford.
The Brazilian is eclipsed by the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Jorginho in terms of creativity.
City playmaker De Bruyne leads the way for assists this season on eight, while Chelsea’s deep-lying midfielder Jorginho has played the same amount of through balls, the most in the league so far.
Fred’s lack of advanced play has lead to Scott McTominay leaping ahead of him as Paul Pogba’s partner in the middle of the park.
The Brazil international came under fire for his two latest performances, against AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League and Newcastle in the Prem.
Arsenal legend Martin Keown said on Match of the Day 2: "They're so inept in possession. Fred, it's almost becoming a joke when he gets the ball.
"I know it's good closing down but you've got to be able to control it and pass. If that's the central midfield then there's not going to be anything created."
United sit 12th in the table, TWO points above the relegation zone, and dreadful Fred admitted he needs to step his game up.
Talking about criticism from Old Trafford legends, he said: “They are within their rights, they’ve won many titles with this club. We have to shut up and work on the pitch.
“Some critics are pointless — but many can offer me lessons.
“I like to read what people are saying about my performances. With that, I can try to get better.”
Defeat at Newcastle on Sunday was only Fred’s 24th start since moving to United, but he wants to help restore the club to its former glory.
He told Esporte Interativo: “I do understand it.
“Every day when I arrive at the training ground, when I see those big letters with the name of the club, I pinch myself.
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“So I know this club is gigantic. I like to read about its history, best players and historical moments.
“It hasn’t been great times for us — our rivals are winning titles and we’re not even in the Champions League. It makes our fans sad and I feel sad as well.
“This club deserves silverware and we’re going to fight to get better. We have to put United back in the place it should never have left.”
