‘It’s been over the top’ – Pundits defend Manchester United midfielder over criticism

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·17. September 2024

‘It’s been over the top’ – Pundits defend Manchester United midfielder over criticism

Sky Sports pundits Paul Merson and Clinton Morrison have responded to the criticism towards Casemiro.

The Brazilian midfielder didn’t start the season strongly and had a nightmare against Liverpool, in the 3-0 defeat before the September international break, but United have signed Manuel Ugarte which means there is another defensive midfielder in the squad.

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Speaking about the criticism Casemiro has received since the heavy loss against Liverpool, Merson believes it was “over the top” with suggestions that people should get off his case.

“I think it’s been over the top. I felt for Casemiro, I really did (against Liverpool),” Merson told Sky Sports, quoted by the Manchester Evening News. “I know he gave the ball away but everyone gives the ball away. There was a lot to be done still (by Liverpool), a lot to be done.”

Morrison agreed with Merson, adding: “It’s different than Real Madrid, (look at) the players he had around him. It’s a different league than the Premier League. The Premier League is a fast tempo. He had some top players (around him. He is a top player, Merse is spot on.

“He is still trying to be positive and make forward balls. He’s just a yard too slow at the moment but you can never write a player off. He’s 32 years of age, he’s not 35, 36. He was never a quick midfielder anyway. He just used to screen it and give it to players like Luke Modric. He had players in front of him who could create something at Real Madrid.”

Merson concluded that it’s now become a matter of Casemiro losing his confidence. The 32-year-old had a poor season last term, but the role he played in the team didn’t suit someone who struggles to cover ground.

“His confidence has gone,” Merson added. “He’s not become a bad player, his confidence has just gone.”

Perhaps the arrival of Ugarte will see Casemiro played further forward or in defence when required. Only time will tell, but we have an incredibly experienced player in Casemiro who can still benefit the team.

[Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images]

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