Manchester United have powered their way into the Premier League top four, with a victory over Brighton on Saturday their third win in a row.
Ruben Amorim and his men raised some eyebrows when they beat arch rivals Liverpool at Anfield last weekend and the Red Devils are now on their best run of form under the Portuguese coach.
While United signing Benjamin Sesko and a number of other attacking acquisitions made headlines in the summer, the blend of the side’s midfield hasn’t felt right in the Premier League up until recently.
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However, with the Red Devils starting to find their rhythm under Amorim, the former Sporting Lisbon trainer has picked one established United star out for praise.
Ruben Amorim shouts at his players during Manchester United's victory against Sunderland at Old Trafford
Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images
Casemiro gains plaudits after win
Ageing Brazilian midfielder Casemiro has had his detractors in recent times, with his performances for United not befitting of a player who had so much success at Real Madrid.
Now 33, the South American enforcer’s ability to compete with younger opponents has been questioned, but he has been in strong form over recent weeks in the Red Devils’ winning run.
Amorim picked Casemiro out for praise following the win over Brighton, highlighting the veteran as a leader for the rest of the squad.
“I think he gives a lot of experience,” the United boss told the club’s official website.
“He’s so important for us. Today he run (sic) a lot. He had to press so high and then return, and he’s doing that.
“So, I’m really pleased with him. And the other guys need to look at Casemiro.”
Casemiro rounded out a strong performance with a goal, scoring United’s second in the 4-2 win.
Strength of character shines through
United are in a period of transition and it’s clear the club need leaders, both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
Casemiro’s record of success, experience and will to win are valuable assets to a club that has underachieved since the departure of legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.
Manchester United v Sunderland - Premier League
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
While the Brazilian perhaps does not possess the engine to play 90 minutes every week, having the South American start and be replaced in the second half seems like the best option for the United midfield.
It was interesting to see Amorim replace Casemiro with Kobbie Mainoo, rather than the under-performing Manuel Ugarte, showing how far the Uruguayan has fallen down the pecking order.
For United to continue their strong recent form, keeping Casemiro fit and available to dictate the pace of the game in the side’s midfield will be essential.