David de Gea has admitted losing Casemiro to suspension is a huge blow for Manchester United.
The Brazilian midfielder has been a revelation in Erik ten Hag’s midfield, quickly establishing himself as one of the most important players in the side with a string of fine performances.
Casemiro was initially eased into life at Old Trafford following his £70m switch from Real Madrid, but United’s best form has come since the 30-year-old became a regular starter.
However, a fifth yellow card of the season, picked up in the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, means Casemiro will miss United’s trip to Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Supporters were quick to lament Casemiro’s absence for the game, and that sentiment was shared by De Gea when he spoke to Sky Sports after the final whistle.
“It’s a big blow to lose Casemiro for Sunday,” the Spaniard admitted. “I don’t get why Arsenal don’t play as we have to play in the same week and they don’t. Now we are missing one of our best players.”
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United had looked to be on course for three points at Palace – a result that would have lifted them into second in the Premier League table – but a superb late free kick from Michael Olise rescued a point for the hosts.
Reacting to dropping points so late on, De Gea said: “It’s football. Sometimes you score at the end and sometimes they score at the end. Let’s keep going.
“I think we’re doing really well and it’s a massive game on Sunday. I think we’re a much better team than we were before. We are competing really well, deserving the points, playing as a team, which is massive. Everyone wants to win, everyone wants to fight for the team.
“It’s nice to watch and it was a bit sad today because we concede at the end but I still believe in this team. I think we have great players, we all want to win, so let’s keep going.”
