“He made a few obvious mistakes” - Lee Sharpe makes bold verdict on Casemiro amidst Manchester United struggles
Former Manchester United winger Lee Sharpe believes Casemiro might soon be phased out of Erik ten Hag's squad. He also named Luke Shaw as the other player who could potentially leave soon.
The Red Devils signed Casemiro from Real Madrid for a reported fee of £70 million in the summer of 2022. He helped them win the Carabao Cup in the first season but has struggled for consistency since then. His performances have arguably been lethargic and he's struggled to keep up with the Premier League's pace.
The 32-year-old recently made two mistakes, which led to two goals, in Manchester United's 3-0 defeat against Liverpool at Old Trafford. Pointing that out, Lee Sharpe recently said that Manuel Ugarte might replace Casemiro in the team soon. He said (via Daily Express):
“It’s difficult to say that any player should be worried about their position in the team after just four games. Casemiro made a few obvious mistakes and gave goals away against Liverpool, but then so did Kobbie Mainoo.
“But I don’t think we’ll be seeing as much of Casemiro now that United have signed Manuel Ugarte.”
Sharpe also raised questions about Luke Shaw's fitness and eventual future at the club, saying:
“Looking more long-term, I’d also mention Luke Shaw. He’s one of the best left-backs in the world when he’s fit, but he can’t seem to stay fit. I think that might be a long-term problem for him.”
Shaw has yet to make an appearance for Manchester United this season as he's out due to an injury.
Erik ten Hag provides injury update ahead of Crystal Palace vs Manchester United
Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount are set to return to action for Manchester United this weekend, as per Erik ten Hag. They will be in the squad to face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in the Premier League on Saturday, September 21.
Ten Hag confirmed (via manutd.com):
"It's very good news. They are back on the pitch, they are back in team training and, yeah, we have to decide whether they are fit enough to start. But I think it's very pleasing they are back with the squad.
“We have so many games also in this block to cover, so yeah, very happy. They did a couple of training [sessions]. We will have to see how they recover, and then, tomorrow, we will make a final call."
Hojlund has yet to make an appearance this season. Meanwhile, Mason Mount was subbed off at half-time in Manchester United's 2-1 defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion on August 24.