Manchester United’s players are in a strange place right now as they wait for new head coach Ruben Amorim to take over next week.
Ruud van Nistelrooy is doing a fine job as interim boss, picking up another victory in Thursday night’s Europa League game against PAOK.
Amad was the standout player, grabbing both goals on his first start since Manchester United’s away trip to Porto.
United were solid, keeping a clean sheet, albeit against inferior opposition, landing a first Europa League victory of the season.
Casemiro praised
Amad’s man of the match performance made the subject of star player to be a foregone conclusion. As such, asking the question over who impressed, had to have a slight tweak.
On MUTV, pundits Wes Brown and Phil Bardsley were asked who impressed, that wasn’t called Amad.
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro was the standout name, with the former Real Madrid star backed to play a key role for the remainder of the season.
Bardsley said: “Casemiro, to be fair, looks over the last couple of games, is looking like his former self. He looks a lot sharper in his all round play. He looks bit more happy in himself, if being brutally honest.
“And it’s great to see, because, you know, players like that with great experience. We’ve got so many young players in around the squad, and it can help nurture them and help them. So it’s important.
“He’ll be a big player for us for the remainder of season.”
Wes Brown also named Casemiro as a player who caught his eye, but admitted he could not really see past Amad.
He explained: “Casemiro had a solid game. But I don’t think you can. I think Amad just stole the show today a little bit. You know, he was the spark in attack and got us the goals. You know, that’s what wins us games.”
Casemiro’s game by numbers
Casemiro appears to be benefitting from playing alongside Manuel Ugarte. Their partnership is showing promising signs, as he is being allowed to get forward.
The 32-year-old featured for all 90 minutes, creating two goalscoring chances for his side. His attempts on goal were less successful, with both off target.
Casemiro had 75 touches, most of which were spent trying to drive United forward. For instance, he did not make a single tackle during the match.
He did make one interception, and won both of his aerial duels, also blocking one shot.
Christian Eriksen did return to the side as a substitute, but we would expect Casemiro to retain his place against Leicester this weekend.
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