Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes Manchester United will never challenge for the Premier League with the likes of Fred and Scott McTominay starting in midfield.
The pair impressed as the Red Devils relieved some pressure on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s position with a 3-1 win against Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday.
Solskjaer opted to keep the likes of Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic on the bench, while the conservative Juan Mata was selected on the right flank.
But while the Norwegian’s team selection worked out against the Toffees, Hasselbaink believes United will always have problems going forward and at the back while they continue to pick McTominay and Fred.
‘He did get a reaction. They did play better after Everton’s 1-0. I just think that they have problems in the team,’ Hasselbaink told Premier League Productions.
‘They’ve got problems defensively and going forward. They’re not as good as they used to be. That’s normal because we’re expecting too much from Manchester United just because they’re Manchester United.
‘That’s not a Manchester United team is it? Two defensive midfield players, going to Everton where you should have more attacking players on the pitch, especially Pogba.’
Ian Wright claimed Solskjaer is picking Fred and McTominay because they are more dependable than Pogba.
Hasselbaink agreed the pair provide greater defensive cover but says the club cannot progress with such a negative arrangement in midfield.
‘I agree with that for now but longer term you cannot have Fred and McTominay in your team to become champions or to challenge for the championship.
‘For now maybe the games that he needs to defend the back four a bit better to give them stability but long-term? That’s not a Manchester United way.’
