Manchester United midfielder Fred has lifted the lid on his "awful first season" with the Red Devils.

The Brazil international arrived at Old Trafford in a big-money move from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018 but failed to hit the ground running in the Premier League.

However, Fred has established himself as a key player under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this term, and the 27-year-old has taken the time to look back on his underwhelming maiden campaign.

"I believe the first season was very difficult for me," the midfielder said in quotes attributed to the Evening Standard.

"There was the process of settling down here, but also other personal things that were happening in my life, such as the birth of my son.

"So I believe it was a mix of reasons that made me have an awful first season. I am definitely settled in every aspect now.

"I have been enjoying some good performances and the chance of playing a great sequence of games. That was also helpful. I am delighted with this season.

"I am now playing well and hopefully I can keep the momentum if the league returns. I just want to give my best for this club, trying to be a key part of the team."

Fred has turned out 39 times for the Red Devils during the 2019-20 season, netting twice in the Europa League against Club Brugge.