Former Old Trafford defender Mikael Silvestre says Casemiro’s return to action in Manchester United’s Europa League tie against Barcelona will provide a boost to his teammates due to his experience.
The Brazilian has missed United’s last two games through suspension after his red card against Crystal Palace for violent conduct. He will also miss Sunday’s clash with Leicester but is eligible to play against Barcelona on Thursday with domestic bans not carrying over into European competitions.
His availability will come as a relief in more ways than one for Erik ten Hag. Casemiro’s expertise in midfield has been missed and he will likely play the whole game given the limited midfield options available.
READ MORE: Casemiro readying for Barcelona tie
January loanee Marcel Sabitzer is suspended for the contest after picking up three yellow cards during Bayern Munich’s Champions League group stage campaign, with rules dictating that European bans carry across all UEFA competitions.
Meanwhile, Scott McTominay is a doubt with Christian Eriksen and Donny van de Beek nursing long-term injuries. Fred, therefore, is likely to partner Casemiro.
Lisandro Martinez is out of the first leg due to suspension after amassing three yellow cards in the group stages, which includes one received after harshly being deemed to have handled in the area for the winning penalty in the loss to Real Sociedad.
Casemiro’s guarding of the defence will be highly valued as a result. Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, courtesy of bettingexpert.com, Silvestre backed Casemiro to “shine” against Barcelona.
He suggested that the linchpin - who played in 19 El Clasicos for Real Madrid - would bring the steadfast quality needed to fend off the likes of Gavi, Pedri and Robert Lewandowski. “I have to say that Casemiro could shine in that game,” Silvestre said.
“He is one of the best players at his position and that was the reason why Man United bought him in the first place. No disrespect to the clubs but they didn't buy him to play against Wolverhampton and Brentford.
“Man United bought Casemiro because they want to compete in these kinds of ties. All the young players can look at him and with his presence he will help the inexperienced players a lot. I also think he looks very much forward to that game against Barcelona because of his time at Real Madrid.”
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