Erik ten Hag has leapt to the defense of beleaguered midfielder Casemiro, insisting Manchester United still “definitely need him”.
The 32-year-old was substituted at half-time after making two mistakes that allowed Liverpool to score in their 3-0 win at Old Trafford before the international break.
Within 45 minutes, the Brazil international was joint-top in the Premier League for errors leading to shots and goals, sitting level with Ipswich Town goalkeeper Arijanet Muric.
Casemiro now faces a battle to become Man Utd’s starting eleven following the club’s signing of Uruguay international Manuel Ugarte at the end of the summer transfer window.
Ten Hag defends Man Utd star Casemiro
Despite many calling for Casemiro to be sold as surplus to requirements, Ten Hag has defended the ex-Madrid player, who believes he still has an important role to play at Old Trafford.
“(I definitely need him, for sure),” Ten Hag told Casemiro’s reporters at his pre-Southampton press conference (via BBC Sports).
“Of course I talk to him about the situation, but everyone can have a bad day at the office, or do you never have a bad day at the office?
“He’s experienced and it’s not the first time, I guess he’s faced a bad game and now he has to overcome this one too.
“But that’s normal in life. You have ups and downs.”
