Jose Mourinho does not feel he can trust big-money signing Fred until Manchester United finally find a way to defend.
Mourinho said Fred was adapting "step by step" to life in the Premier League and added: "You have other players in other clubs that needed time (to adjust) and you have some of them that play even less than Fred is playing.
The Brazil international was not even included in Mourinho's injury-hit squad for Wednesday's 2-2 draw with Arsenal and has only made eight starts for a United side who have already conceded 25 goals.
They need points."
Such comments do not bode well for Fred ahead of Saturday's important Premier League clash with rock-bottom Fulham.
"There are special players with special characteristics.
"I sat here a few weeks ago speaking about December and no defeats - that's a reality - good fights, good spirit, but just one victory against Young Boys and three draws. For more news relating to Arsenal, visit our sister site Arsenal Live.