'Like a mosquito' - Ten Hag loved what Manchester United midfielder Fred did to Frenkie de Jong
manchestereveningnews.co.ukErik ten Hag hailed the performance of Fred across both legs as Manchester United knocked Barcelona out of the Europa League.
The Brazilian started for United in the 2-2 draw at Camp Nou last week and kept his place for the 2-1 comeback win at Old Trafford last night.
Fred had some poor moments across both matches, but made the difference in key moments as his side booked their place in the knockout round proper of the competition. Read next: How the United players rated vs Barcelona The 29-year-old was like a man possessed in the second-half and sparked United's comeback with a well taken goal just two minutes after the restart.
Ten Hag was delighted with the man-marking job Fred did on Frenkie de Jong a week ago, and also hailed the midfielder for his impressive performance at Old Trafford. "He had an important role already last week in Barcelona," Ten Hag said at his post-match press conference. "First to stop Frenkie de Jong playing, he had to play as a mosquito around him and go behind him, and he did it magnificent. "Last week he gave a brilliant assist for Rashy (Marcus Rashford) and today he scored a goal, brilliant performance." Fred brought much-needed energy to United's approach after the break, and after the game, Ten Hag explained how crucial speed was to the way he wants his side to play.
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