'Pastor Fred' lauds his connection with our fans

Joining the action after an hour in our successful FA Cup semi-final clash with Brighton, the Brazilian expectedly brought energy to the pitch, helping the Reds to push the Seagulls all the way until the match was ultimately settled on penalties.

Recently finding a spare moment in our hectic fixture schedule, the 30-year-old sat down with UTD Podcast co-hosts Helen Evans and Sam Homewood to record the latest episode, which will be exclusively available on ManUtd.com and in the United App from 16:00 BST on Tuesday. 

During his extended chat, the ever-smiling Brazilian spoke about the importance of his connection with the United fans and the endearing nickname our supporters have given him: 'Pastor Fred.'

"I think we need to be happy every day,"  he began. "So the fans look at me, I always [make sure] to smile. I always go to sign, go to take a picture with the fans.

"This connection is good with our fans. So, it’s important, and every time you see me smiling with the fans, with everyone, it’s so good."

Fred doesn't take his position as a professional footballer for granted, and makes it clear throughout the podcast how lucky he feels to do what he loves for a living.

"We are blessed to be here," he added. "I have a good job, [playing for] the best team of the world. I have a beautiful family, so I’m so blessed and I’m happy."

It’s the midfielder's positive outlook and strong connection to his faith that have earned him the nickname, ‘Pastor Fred,' and this is something that our no.17 enjoys.

"I love the nickname ‘Pastor Fred’ because my social media is always, I always post something of the God, something blessed," he continued.

"I am blessed, and people [give me] this nickname and I love it."

The new episode of UTD Podcast, featuring Fred, will be released on ManUtd.com and in the United App at 16:00 BST on Tuesday 25 April.