Casemiro will be suspended for Manchester United’s trip to Arsenal on Sunday after picking up a suspension.
The midfielder was booked against Crystal Palace in the 80th minute, with manager Erik ten Hag taking a real gamble by starting him, and keeping him on the pitch.
Zaha scythed down Wilfried Zaha, and 10 minutes later Palace went on to score an equaliser to compound United’s misery.
Still, a big way to bounce back is available on Sunday when United visit league leaders Arsenal. It just won’t be with Casemiro.
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Casemiro suspended v Arsenal
Casemiro is an integral player for Manchester United, but Erik ten Hag is not going to get down about his upcoming absence, not publicly at least.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Ten Hag gave a brilliant response, reminding everybody that he did not need Casemiro to beat Arsenal the first time.
He said: “Last time we beat Arsenal without Casemiro. This time we have to do the same.”
United beat the Gunners 3-1 at Old Trafford earlier in the season with Antony netting the opener and Marcus Rashford scoring twice.
Scott McTominay and Christian Eriksen were in midfield that day along with Bruno Fernandes, and this could be the trio selected at The Emirates.
Fred is available, he avoided picking up a yellow card for a suspension in his 10 minute cameo appearance from the bench.
Ten Hag’s comments are important, as they remind the media, supporters, and his players, that the team is not reliant on Casemiro, as good as he is.
While every United fan would rather have him available this weekend, all is not lost without Casemiro. Erik ten Hag is right to reinforce this message.
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