Mark Goldbridge has criticised Fred's performance in Manchester United's disappointing 0-0 draw at home to Newcastle United in the Premier League.

The Lowdown: Man United held by Newcastle

The Red Devils hosted the Magpies on Sunday afternoon hoping to continue their improved league form but it ended up being a poor day at the office.

United were never at their best at Old Trafford, and while chances came and went throughout the 90 minutes, a draw was arguably fair in the end as both teams had an equal number of shots on target (two).

It was a day which saw too many individuals fall well below their usual level, and it will be looked back on as two points dropped come the end of the season.

The Latest: Goldbridge unhappy with Fred

Taking to Twitter during the game, Goldbridge make it clear what he thought of Fred's performance, believing that it may be worth throwing in academy youngsters Zidane Iqbal or Kobbie Mainoo instead, with both having been among the substitutes yesterday.

The talkSPORT host insisted:

"Iqbal or Mainoo can't be any worse than Fred. Got to be worth a go."

The Verdict: Is he good enough?

While Fred's attitude and work ethic can never be questioned, there are real lingering doubts over whether or not the much-maligned midfielder is good enough for United now that they have the likes of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen to call upon.

There are clear limitations to his game in terms of providing genuine guile and control in the middle of the park, and Erik ten Hag may well be looking for an upgrade in that position soon.

Against Newcastle, Fred won just two out of eight ground duels and one of our four in the air, highlighting what a timid showing it was from him.

It might be risky for Ten Hag to throw the inexperienced Iqbal or Mainoo into a Premier League game soon, but the Carabao Cup next month might offer a window of opportunity.