Neville claims Solskjaer has ‘private’ theory for snubbing Man Utd duo

Gary Neville believes Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will “privately” know his best midfield trio, amid questions over his selection decisions.

Donny van de Beek’s arrival means the Red Devils now have an abundance of talent in their engine room.

Indeed, Fred, Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic and Bruno Fernandes are also fighting for game time.

But in Saturday’s draw with Chelsea, Solskjaer opted to field Fred and McTominay behind Fernandes. Statistically, that is one of the manager’s favoured trios, the three selected on two occasions so far this season.

And while Solskjaer faced questions as to why Pogba and Van de Beek were left on the bench after the dull 0-0 affair, Neville believes the United boss has his mind made up.

“That midfield three, I think that’s actually probably his favourite midfield three,” Neville told Sky Sports (via the Daily Express).

“I think Fred and McTominay appear to bring out the best or are proving to bring out the best in Fernandes.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Bruno Fernandes

“Trying to get that balance with Fernandes, Pogba, Van De Beek hasn’t quite happened.

“So privately Ole may feel that three is the three that will give him the best result on the pitch.”

Meanwhile, Solskjaer has also chosen to play Matic and Pogba behind Fernandes on two other occasions.


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Van de Beek struggling for game time

Donny van de Beek Man Utd

The midfielder who has so far been without significant game time is Van de Beek, the £35million summer arrival. The Dutchman is yet to start in the Premier League and did not feature at all against Chelsea.

Solskjaer insisted after the match that, in a long and truncated season, every player will get their fair share of game time.

However, Neville and fellow United legend Patrice Evra do not feel convinced.

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