Manchester United star Casemiro delivered a stand-out performance during the 2-0 Premier League win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.
The Red Devils ended their top-flight campaign on a high note with a victory at the Amex Stadium.
However, it was not sufficient to secure Conference League football after seventh-placed Newcastle United outclassed Brentford by a 4-2 scoreline.
United now need to beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final to qualify for the Europa League.
Meanwhile, looking at the Brighton game, there were some positives to carry forward. One of those was the impressive showing from Casemiro at the back.
The Brazilian started alongside Lisandro Martinez in central defence against the Seagulls. He had a good outing with 81 touches and a 90 per cent pass accuracy.
Casemiro won seven ground duels and six tackles while making five clearances and blocking as many shots. He made a crucial clearance off the line early in the second half.
Prior to the game, the 32-year-old said that the criticism towards him this season has been ‘disrespectful‘. He provided the perfect response with a stand-out showing for United.
Despite this, we don’t see him starting in the heart of the backline in the FA Cup final on Saturday.
Raphael Varane had a 28-minute cameo after his return from injury. We anticipate the Frenchman to accompany Martinez in central defence at the Wembley Stadium.
Casemiro should still get the nod in the starting XI. He should move into his customary number six role ahead of Sofyan Amrabat, who had a poor outing at Brighton.
The Moroccan looked out of sorts against the constant high press from the Seagulls. We would be surprised if he makes the starting XI for the Manchester derby.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
