Erik ten Hag says he is ‘convinced’ Casemiro will have big impact on Manchester United

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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has thrown his backing behind new signing Casemiro.

Surprisingly strong form from Scott McTominay has delayed Casemiro’s expected regular role in the team, with Ten Hag reluctant to unsettle a winning side.

United’s defeat to City at the weekend could now accelerate a change, while the press have been impatiently asking questions about Casemiro’s absence.

Ten Hag responded at his pre-game press conference to back Casemiro and talk up the impact he expects him to make.

Ten Hag says he is ‘convinced’ by Casemiro

Erik ten Hag told United’s club website he is ‘convinced’ Casemiro will have a big role to play over the season ahead.

The manager explained: “I’m sure Casemiro will play a really important role. We know all his background, we know all the titles he won.

“You see every day in training, he can contribute in this team, and he will be a really important player for this team.

“So, we will see what will happen but I’m convinced that will happen.”

Casemiro could go into the team tonight for the Europa League fixture against Omonia Nicosia in Cyprus.

There’s a case that United could save him for the Everton match on Sunday, but United really need to just get him playing games as swiftly as possible, and let him earn a starting spot.

If he players well against Omonia then it will strengthen his case for the Everton game and leave him more confident and attuned to his teammates.

United have a hectic fixture schedule upcoming, with last weekend’s derby the first of nine matches being played in October.

He will have a part to play, and if it doesn’t quite take off instantly, or there is too much chopping and changing, we may see the best of him in January after the World Cup.

Casemiro provided an assist in Brazil’s win over Tunisia a week ago and is set to start for his country in Qatar.

It’s possible he could partner Brazil international teammate Fred tonight against Omonia, with both players in need of game time.