Ten Hag backs Onana despite more struggles in Man Utd defeat
Casemiro has been ever-present for Manchester United this season and just so happens to be Erik ten Hag’s top goalscorer, netting four times in 10 appearances. But the 31-year-old is one of several struggling for form, and Old Trafford legend Gary Pallister has suggested a bold decision to spark improvement.
Casemiro rarely scored goals throughout his illustrious Real Madrid career, recording 31 in 336 games for Los Blancos (every 10.8).
He has almost doubled that rate at United since joining in a £70million deal last summer, scoring 11 goals in 61 appearances (every 5.5).
The Brazil international has surprised many with his attacking exploits, particularly in the air from set-pieces.
And Pallister believes it could be time for Ten Hag to start utilising Casemiro in a more advanced role rather than the midfield anchorman.
Pallister, who lifted 15 trophies in nine years at United, has likened Casemiro’s quality to fellow M16 great Paul Scholes.
“Nobody complained about Casemiro last season, as he impressed everyone with his enthusiasm, passing range, and calmness,” Pallister told Betway.
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“He’s a terrific player who can see things on a pitch that perhaps only Christian Eriksen can.
“Casemiro is an incredible threat in the air. He can ghost into space just as Paul Scholes used to be.
“He wasn’t considered a threat at Real Madrid, but he definitely is at United. I’d say a lot of that is due to his experience.
“He’s supposed to be a holding midfielder, but his threat is there for everyone to see. I know he was a lot of money, but I’ve got no complaints with him yet.”
United are short on defensive midfielders who could replace Casemiro at the foot of Ten Hag’s midfield three, with Fred leaving in the summer and Scott McTominay out of favour under Ten Hag.
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But Sofyan Amrabat will move centrally once Sergio Reguilon, Tyrell Malacia, or Luke Shaw return from injury.
And Pallister believes the 27-year-old will thrive in midfield once he moves away from an unnatural left-back role in which he has struggled.
“There’s a lot of work to be done. Let’s hope the injuries lighten up a bit after the international break and help give the squad more balance,” Pallister told Betway.
“Sofyan Amrabat isn’t a natural left back, but he’s had to play there. I can’t wait to see him play in the middle of the park. I think he’ll perform really well in midfield.”
Amrabat, Casemiro and one of Bruno Fernandes or Mason Mount could soon become Ten Hag’s go-to midfield trio.
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