Manchester United have received a major injury boost ahead of this weekend’s derby with Manchester City.
Casemiro trained with the Manchester United first team on Monday as the Red Devils prepared for tonight’s Champions League game at home to Copenhagen.
He cannot play in this game due to suspension after receiving a red card in the defeat to Galatasaray.
But he looks to be on course to play against City in the first derby of the season on Sunday.
Casemiro chance to rest
Manchester United have plenty of midfield options available in midweek, with Sofyan Amrabat expected to start the game.
Christian Eriksen, Mason Mount, Scott McTominay, Hannibal Mejbri, Bruno Fernandes, and even a returning Kobbie Mainoo all provide midfield options to play alongside Amrabat in the week.
Add Casemiro back into the mix at the weekend, and Manchester United will be in a good place in midfield for the weekend.
Casemiro will have a full week to rest up ahead of Sunday’s game, a break he needed, and rarely gets.
He missed the victory over Sheffield United at the weekend, with the Red Devils earning a hard fought 2-1 win.
Casemiro had sustained an injury playing for Brazil which caused him to miss the match.
No guarantee Casemiro starts
With so many midfield options, there is no guarantee Casemiro will start in the derby this weekend.
GiveMeSport claim Casemiro could have to settle for a spot on the bench, amid poor form before the international break.
Yet, it’s hard to think Erik ten Hag would really leave out a player with his experience, who was vital to the 2-1 win over City at Old Trafford last season.
Factor in the week of rest, and there is reason to be optimistic that Casemiro might return fresher and better than ever.
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