Manchester United squad decision shows what Erik ten Hag thinks of Fred

Amid the changing of the season, there has been a core of consistency at Manchester United under Erik ten Hag.

The Dutchman has had to make the most of his squad options to keep his side battling on three fronts as we head into the business end of the campaign, though it is clear that he has a group of favourites.

He will have to make do without a few of them tomorrow night when United travel to Sevilla in search of a victory to book their place in the final four of the Europa League.

Read more: United get major triple injury boost

Bruno Fernandes will miss out through suspension, while Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane will miss out through injury.

For a variety of reasons, United have had to cope without key players throughout the campaign. Yet, amid all of the illnesses, injuries, and suspensions, two players have remained ever-present for Ten Hag.

It is perhaps no surprise that David de Gea has been included in every competitive matchday squad this season, playing in 47 of a possible 51 matches across all competitions.

But it is somewhat of a surprise to realise that the only other player to achieve that feat is Fred. He has also been named in every matchday squad this season and has played a part in all but six matches of the grueling campaign.

There is of course an element of luck that he has remained injury-free when many of his teammates haven't, but it still says a lot that he has been selected every single week by his manager.

Prior to the weekend trip to Nottingham, the same was true of Tyrell Malacia. He has only made 33 appearances this season, but has now only missed out on one squad call-up.

When looking at the success of United's season, it is easy to overlook the understated duo, but their