Arsenal legend brands Manchester United Fred a joke

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown says it has almost become a joke when Fred is in possession of the ball for Manchester United.

The Brazilian midfielder, a £52million signing from Shakhtar Donetsk last summer, delivered a dour display as United were beaten 1-0 by Newcastle on Sunday. 

The result means United are without an away win in the Premier League since the end of February, when they beat Crystal Palace 3-1 at Selhurst Park.

Fred missed the beginning of United’s pre-season tour of Australia and Southeast Asia to get married and in August he vowed to repay the club’s supporters for their faith in him after a dismal maiden campaign in England.

“They’re so inept in possession,” Keown said of United’s performance on Tyneside. “Fred, it’s almost becoming a joke when he gets the ball. I know it’s good closing down but you’ve got to be able to control it and pass. 

If that’s the central midfield then there’s not going to be anything created.”