Diogo Dalot has hailed Manchester United team-mate Fred after his match-winner against Crystal Palace.
The Reds got Ralf Rangnick’s reign off to a perfect start with a 1-0 win over the Eagles and next up it is Young Boys in the Champions League. United go into that game having already secured top place in the group, so it will be a chance for the new manager to get to know his players better.
Fred gave a perfect introduction of himself versus Palace as United move up to seventh in the Premier League table.
The Brazilian has been heavily criticised by fans, pundits and former pros during his time at Old Trafford, despite often being played out of position as a defensive midfielder.
Under Rangnick – and even Michael Carrick as caretaker manager – Fred has been allowed to push further forward but nobody was expecting a goal from outside of the box.
Dalot has hailed Fred as an “underdog” who always gives everything to the team.
Speaking to club media, Dalot said (via ManUtd.com): “He’s the underdog. Everybody can criticise him but he keeps his head clear and goes on the pitch, every game he gives everything that he has, and that’s what this club is about.
“Even if you lose the ball or miss a shot on goal, you’re always going to try the next one and you’re always going to fight for the team and that’s what we want. Players like that are what we want.”
Dalot was one of the best performers in a United shirt at the weekend.
Perhaps the new manager will give him a fresh start, which is something quite a few players need and I include Fred in that.
Dalot added: ”It’s not easy when you’re outside [the starting XI] and you don’t play as much, but it’s our job to keep ready and I think I was doing a fantastic job outside the pitch being ready.”
It wouldn’t surprise me if Dalot got more games under Rangnick as he’s a lot better going forward than Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
