International boss crushed by ‘great sadness’ of Manchester United star’s injury

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Casemiro’s absence from the Brazil squad is a source of ‘great sadness’ with the Premier League veteran joining Manchester United’s walking wounded.

As things stand, the Old Trafford treatment table would give rush hour on the M62 a run for it’s money, players dropping like flies amid all manner of knocks and niggles.

Casemiro, as confirmed by Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, is unlikely to be available again until the New Year. And it is not just the Dutchman left disappointed by the news of Casemiro’s absence, Brazil forced to do without one of the modern era’s most decorated footballers during this week’s World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.

Casemiro unavailable for Man United and Brazil

“It’s always good to be able to count on everyone,” sighs Brazil coach Fernando Diniz, bemoaning the absences of both Casemiro and Neymar in conversation with Gazeta Esportiva.

“It’s a shame and a great sadness not to be able to count on Neymar. He is missed in any scenario, as is Casemiro, one of the great exponents in the position in recent years in world football.”

But one man’s misery, as they say, is another’s fortune.

And with Casemiro out, opportunity knocks for a man who may well take his place long-term for both Brazil and for Manchester United, the Red Devils reportedly looking into a deal for the £30 million-rated Copa Libertadores winner Andre Trindade.

Andre Trindade catches the eye

“Now, opportunities for others appear. All of them (the young players) know that they are here on merit. They are all playing well at big clubs,” adds Diniz, the Brazil interim boss who also coaches Andre at Fluminense.

“They must try to act here as naturally as possible. (The challenge) is not to do anything different from what they do at clubs. On the contrary, it is to reproduce that. That’s why they are here.”

While injury ruled Casemiro out for Brazil, Antony’s absence is down to form rather than fitness. The much-criticised Manchester United winger is also not part of Diniz’s squad.