Ian Wright names two players Manchester United can no longer blame for struggles

TV pundit Ian Wright has stuck up for Fred and Scott McTominay by suggesting Manchester United can no longer blame the two players for their ongoing struggles.

Fred and McTominay - or 'McFred' as they were nicknamed in some circles - were the club's regular midfield pairing before Erik ten Hag became manager. United have since allowed Fred to leave for Fenerbahce in a €15million move this summer, while McTominay remains on the periphery.

The 26-year-old has only played 183 minutes for United this season. During their time as main choices in the engine room, Fred and McTominay made 126 appearances together - but the Premier League giants have gone on to make five signings in that position in 15 months.

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Ten Hag signed Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Marcel Sabitzer (loan) last season, while the Dutchman then added to his midfield options this summer by splashing out £60million on England star Mason Mount from Chelsea. Sofyan Amrabat later joined United on deadline day from Fiorentina in another loan swoop.

Speaking about the club's problematic midfield, former Arsenal hero Wright told the Kelly and Wrighty Show: "They can't blame McTominay and Fred anymore, it's not them. They've got a different midfield.

"But it's the same outcome. No control of the game. No game management."

Wright, 59, added: "Everything is about getting the ball to [Marcus] Rashford or Antony, beating someone in a one-vs-one and getting the ball across. That is literally their game-plan, it's all I can work out, because I don't know what else they do [in their play].

"[United had] 78 per cent possession [against Crystal