Erik ten Hag has been urged to find a replacement for one of his most experienced midfielders (Picture: Getty)
Replacing error-prone goalkeeper Andre Onana isn’t Erik ten Hag’s biggest problem at Manchester United, according to Chris Sutton.
The Cameroon international’s mistakes cost his side dearly again in midweek as United twice squandered a two-goal lead and were forced to settle for a 3-3 draw against Galatasaray.
And while Onana’s confidence is likely to be at rock bottom following another inept display, Sutton fears Ten Hag has an even bigger issue that needs addressing in central midfield.
The former Chelsea striker fears a lack of a specialist defensive midfielder is undermining United’s defence and goalkeeper with Casemiro, currently sidelined following an injury setback, not fit for purpse.
United paid £70million for the experienced Brazil international last summer, a transfer Sutton branded a ‘panic move’ at the time, and he now looks ill-equipped to deal with the rigours of Premier League football.
‘Arsenal have Declan Rice,’ Sutton told the Daily Mail. Manchester City have Rodri. Tottenham have Yves Bissouma. Chelsea have Moises Caicedo. Liverpool have Alexis Mac Allister.
‘Manchester United, meanwhile, have a defensive midfielder who I described as a £70million panic signing last year, for which I was criticised.
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Casemiro performed well last campaign. Better than I expected of the Brazilian in his 30s. But he is now injured and when he does feature, he doesn’t look like he’s got the legs to keep up with the demand of this level.
‘Not like Rice, or Rodri, or the other elite midfield men out there who can control proceedings. The decision to let Casemiro sign a long-term deal is looking more and more foolish because he is not the answer to the lack of protection being provided by the midfield.
‘Goalkeeper Andre Onana needs all the protection he can get, too, given the way he has been flapping whenever anything flies his way.’
Teenager Kobbie Mainoo impressed on his full Premier League debut in last weekend’s win at Everton and while the 18-year-old has displayed some hugely pormising signs, Sutton fears it is too soon for Ten Hag to play him on a regular basis.
‘Kobbie Mainoo is an excellent prospect but he is only 18,’ he added. ‘As good as he was in that first Premier League start against Everton last weekend, he needs time to blossom.
‘Mainoo’s lack of experience may be why Erik ten Hag did not start him at Galatasaray in the Champions League on Wednesday. United led 2-0, then 3-1, but unprotected, they threw it away to draw 3-3.’
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‘He doesn’t look like he’s got the legs to keep up with the demand of this level.’