‘He knows the game’ – Erik ten Hag explains why he hooked Casemiro for Man Utd debutant Toby Collyer after disastrous first-half display against Liverpool

The Brazilian international was replaced by 20-year-old Toby Collyer – who made his Premier League debut for the second half – after a poor opening 45 minutes. Casemiro lost possession twice in the build-up for Liverpool’s first and second goals and now Ten Hag has had his say on his performance. The Dutchman said the 32-year-old “knows the game”, in response to why he was hooked and backed him to bounce back.

• WHAT ERIK TEN HAG SAID

  On Casemiro being substituted, he told Sky Sports: “It is what the team needed. You know when you are 2-0 down against Liverpool you have to take more risks, it will be open. When you are losing you have to take more risks. I have to give compliments to the team. You have to keep fighting and sticking together.”

  When asked how he took being taken off, Ten Hag added: “You know the game and he knows the game. He will go on and we will go on. He’s a great player. We will continue this season to improve the team and the players.”

  The Dutchman was then asked if Casemiro is still able to play at the highest level. “He improved and has shown so often that he is a great character. We all have seen great moments from him and him be decisive in midfield. He will show that again and will bounce back,” said the ex-Ajax boss.

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Despite spending approximately £180 million on transfer signings this summer, United still are very much a work in progress and questions will be asked if Ten Hag is the right man to lead them forward. While it is still very early days in the season, the Red Devils need to return to winning ways as soon as possible. Incidentally, many will also ask if Casemiro is good enough to be making their starting XI.

  

  • WHAT NEXT?

    United and Liverpool are not in Premier League action again for the next two weeks due to the international break. When they return, the Red Devils will travel to the south coast to take on Southampton on September 14.