Fred impact might have given Manchester United a new strongest XI

"Fred again!

"A great substitution from Ralf Rangnick, but I'm not sure he was brought on to do just that."

Martin Tyler was in mild disbelief when Fred came off the bench to restore Manchester United's lead against Leeds on Sunday afternoon, capping off a fine move as he rifled past Illan Meslier at the near-post.

It was the latest demonstration of attacking flair from the Brazilian samba star, one of the most impressive transformations since the German arrived on an interim basis nearly three months ago.

Fred often struggled because nobody quite knew what it was he offered in the United midfield, but there can be no doubt about what he does offer now playing as one of two number eights in the current set-up.

The 28-year-old is the best pressing midfielder at the club, a precious asset for Rangnick, and he has also debunked a few myths by proving just how reliable he can be with his feet as well.

Fred is still susceptible to frustrating lapses in concentration which leave you wanting to pull your hair out, but in the final third he has fine-tuned his passing and slowly become an unlikely attacking outlay for his side.

Midfield balance remains a big concern for Rangnick, and despite Fred's tremendous impact off the bench, it is understandable why he was the fall guy for a match of such occasion.

Scott McTominay, despite his limitations, is the best defensive anchor currently available, Paul Pogba has been in good form of late, and Bruno Fernandes remains the best midfielder at the club.

United did enough to deserve the three points at Elland Road, but with massive matches against Man City, Tottenham and Liverpool in the Premier League next month, a more robust set-up will need to be settled upon to ensure they aren't