‘He’s got to look at the ball!’ – Robbie Savage singles out Man Utd star for huge error in build-up to Barcelona goal
ROBBIE SAVAGE singled out Fred for criticism after Barcelona’s opening goal against Manchester United.
The former Premier League player was on BT Sport commentary duty as United travelled to Spain.
And they got off to a poor start in the Europa League tie as ex-Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso headed the hosts ahead.
As the corner came in, Alonso ghosted in round the back, heading into the ground and beating David de Gea.
And, after watching the replay, Savage noticed it was Fred who had failed to track the Spaniard as he was left free to head the opener home.
Savage said: “Fred’s got to look at the ball. Poor defending.”
Despite the criticism, Savage did add: “You can question his body shape for the goal. But his energy, enthusiasm and assist for the goal – he’s been brilliant.”
The Brazilian’s blushes were saved after Marcus Rashford levelled on 52 minutes.
Rashford broke free down the road and somehow squeezed in his effort past Marc-Andre ter Stegen from inside the box.
It marked the in-form England international’s 22nd goal in all competitions this season.
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And Rashford had a hand in putting United 2-1 up just minutes later.
He picked up the ball from a short corner, beat his play and played a menacing ball across the face off goal.
It ricocheted all the way through and Barca defender Jules Kounde inadvertently put the ball into his own net.
This time it was Raphinha who had to pull the game back with his curled cross going all the way in, with everyone waiting for Robert Lewandowski to get a touch.
And the thriller finished 2-2 to set up a mouth-watering return leg in Manchester next Thursday.