Ruud van Nistlerooy speaks out on Casemiro criticism under Ten Hag after Leicester victory

Ruud van Nistelrooy heaped the praise on the much-maligned Casemiro following Manchester United’s 5-2 victory at home to Leicester City in the League Cup.

Casemiro netted two of United’s five goals at Old Trafford, with Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho also on target for the Red Devils.

The Brazil international looked back to his best in the heart of midfield for United – sharp contrast to his performance against Liverpool earlier in the season.

Casemiro had been hooked at half-time by the then manager Erik ten Hag, with suggestions he was coming towards the end of his illustrious career.

But on the back of United’s fourth round win against Leicester, Van Nistelrooy has doubled down on Casemiro’s importance to the United squad.

Speaking after the seven-goal thriller, the ex-United star said: “I was delighted for Casemiro, the way he’s been training and helping the team, the club, it’s such an example.

“I’m delighted to have him around and going through difficult moments. He got a lot of criticism after the Liverpool game.”

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher was among those piling the pressure on Casemiro following his disastrous Liverpool showing.

The one-time Liverpool defender suggested Casemiro should “leave the football” before it ends up leaving him.

Casemiro showed no signs of the football having left him against Leicester, as he put on a Man of the Match display against the 2016 Premier League champions.

He was one of several players who looked renewed of confidence playing under Van Nistelrooy, with the Dutchman reiterating his commitment to United after the victory.

He added: “I came here as an assistant to help the club. Now in this role, I’m helping as long as needed.

“In the future in any capacity, I’m here to help the club further to build towards the future that’s what I’m here for.”

Ruben Amorim to United looks as good as a done deal, with INEOS chief Sir Dave Brailsford confirming as much outside Old Trafford after the contest.

But when the Portuguese tactician begins life in the dugout is another question, as reports suggest United could be forced to wait until after the November international break.

That’s because Sporting are said to be determined to enforce the notice period in Amorim’s contract, which could mean he’ll have to take charge of the club’s next three matches between now and mid-November.

If that proves to be the case, Amorim’s first game in charge of the three-time European champions will be away to Ipswich Town on 24 November.