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Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has backed midfielder Casemiro to play a big part in the Red Devils’ hopes of winning the Europa League.
Ruben Amorim’s side secured their semi-final spot with a stunning late 5-4 victory over Olympique Lyonnais last week.
The Brazilian massively struggled last season as pundit Jamie Carragher claimed that he could no longer compete at the highest level.
The midfielder also struggled to originally get into Ruben Amorim’s first choice eleven when he joined the team in the winter but he has fought back to become a key member of the squad in recent times.
Casemiro has started big games recently alongside Manuel Ugarte and he was rested in United’s 0-1 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers at the weekend, ahead of the semi-final clash with Athletic Club.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former defender lauded the recent influence Casemiro has had on the team.
Praising his performance in the Europa League quarter-final he stated, “when the chips were down against Lyon, he turned up. He assisted the last two goals and won a penalty. That is not his game, by the way.”
“There is a moment in some games where it is down to only certain players. He is one of them right now at Man United. Casemiro has the experience and quality.”
Ferdinand did admit that the Brazil international originally struggled to find a role in Amorim’s system but now he has a much greater understanding of his position in the 3-4-3.
“I think there are some players, when they grow older, who need the system and team. I think they found that way of playing with him. The spaces are not as big as they looked earlier in the season.”
Ferdinand also stated that his experience in such a youthful team could also be highly beneficial in United’s pursuit of silverware.
He predicted that Casemiro is now using his experience to know when to commit himself and when to hold his position, which he struggled to do under Erik ten Hag last season.
“He has probably seen these moments for many years, and those little details will come up and pay trumps in big moments.”
Amorim will also be hoping Casemiro’s significant experience of playing Spanish teams during his time at Real Madrid will help against Athletic Club in May.
Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images
