How Scott McTominay and Fred will be affected by Manchester United's transfer priority

There were sarcastic cheers heard at Old Trafford as Fred was substituted off in Manchester United's match against Brighton.

Fred was poor and didn't provide United with much value in midfield but such treatment was unwarranted. The midfielder has been United's scapegoat over the last few years and that's not always been fair.

Although Fred was mostly anonymous on Tuesday night, it was still the right decision from Ralf Rangnick to restore him to the starting XI after his return from international duty.

Ahead of representing Brazil during the winter break, Fred's relentless energy had been instrumental in United's performances. His effort can never be questioned and he's recently added quality to his displays in the final third, which is crucial. Fred played his part in goals against Aston Villa in the FA Cup and in the Premier League, and his assist away at Brentford was sublime.

Fred's pressing is also an asset that Rangnick admires. It's telling that he's only been named on the bench for two games (BSC Young Boys and Wolves) across the German's tenure when he's been available.

Rangnick clearly trusts Fred, but that trust also extends to Scott McTominay, who has missed just one game under the interim boss (Young Boys) when available for selection.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's persistence with Fred and McTominay was a source of frustration for supporters, but Rangnick has continued starting the pair during his reign, albeit deploying them in a different system to Solskjaer's, which has suited both players.

The personnel at the club were signed to play in the 4-3-3 formation and Rangnick has now implemented that system. Truthfully, that was long overdue. With Paul Pogba having been sidelined, it has been Fred, McTominay and