Dwight Yorke: Scott McTominay and Fred MUST deliver for Man United in Casemiro’s absence

Manchester United pair Scott McTominay and Fred must ‘stand up and earn their money’ while Casemiro is missing through suspension, says iconic former striker Dwight Yorke. 

United are in for a difficult upcoming spell after the in-form Brazilian midfielder was sent off in their 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday after putting both of his hands around the neck of Will Hughes. 

Casemiro is set to miss the next three matches for United after he throttled Hughes and added to the long-term injury of Donny van de Beek and Christian Eriksen – who will miss the next three months – boss Erik ten Hag may have an issue on his hands. 

Midfielder McTominay and Fred are obvious contenders to step up in their absence and Yorke – who played 152 times for the Red Devils between 1998 and 2002 – thinks this is their ‘moment’ to show Ten Hag they can be trusted. 

‘It’s harsh on his [Casemiro’s] teammates, because we all know what he brings to the table, and they’re a much better side with him involved,’ he told Ladbrokes: Fanzone.

Man United pair Fred (L) and Scott McTominay (C) must step up for United in Casemiro’s absence, says iconic former striker Dwight Yorke

Yorke believes the duo face a big moment to show Erik ten Hag they can be trustworthy

‘It’ll be a massive loss for them, but this is where the top teams are tested; you need players to come in and do the job while he’s out.

‘For the likes of Scott McTominay and Fred, their job right now is simple: they’ve got to stand up now, and earn their money. You’ve got to come in when the team needs you.

‘Erik ten Hag needs to pull those players aside and just stress how much he needs them in Casemiro’s absence. That’s where you get team unity, when the boys sitting on the bench can come in and do a job. Help the team.

Casemiro is facing three matches out after being sent off for United against Crystal Palace

‘These fringe players have to stand up… it’s why you have such big squads. You can’t rely on one player all season. There has to be depth in quality, otherwise what are you getting paid for?

‘I hope the players recognise that, and I hope Ten Hag can trust his players. This is their moment. He needs them now.’

New signing Marcel Sabitzer is also a player who can step in after joining from Bayern Munich on loan but Fred and McTominay are two players who know each other well and will be able to slot seamlessly into the team. 

United will face Leeds United on Wednesday but the game will come too soon for McTominay, who is not yet fit – but Fred will have a chance to show he is dependable. 

Ten Hag also confirmed the club will not appeal Casemiro’s suspension after his reckless actions against the Eagles.