Carabao Cup final and Premier League: 10 talking points from the weekend

Casemiro wins things. Before arriving in Manchester he had claimed five Champions Leagues, three La Liga titles, one Copa América and 15 other trophies for club and country. He’d won 10 of the 12 major finals he’d played. Now he has a Carabao Cup. Manchester United signed a player with an intimate knowledge of that winning feeling. But would any of that experience count in a team that had forgotten what was required to get over the line? Without him they had lost three finals in five years while finishing second in the league on two occasions. How fitting that his headed goal began the win against Newcastle. But beyond this single act, his greatest contribution is the way he has lifted those around him; especially his countryman Fred, who could be the most-improved player in English football. The Erik ten Hag project has claimed its first prize. For Casemiro, it’s just another day as one of life’s winners. Daniel Gallan

Match report: Manchester United 2-0 Newcastle United

This was nothing new for Newcastle fans of a certain vintage. They lost 2-0 in two consecutive FA Cup finals – against Arsenal in 1998 and then Manchester United a year later. And those were high-water marks of sorts. They finished 13th in both league campaigns. Whenever they fought on two fronts they were dismantled on at least one of them. It was either a cup run or a strong league push. This team have a higher ceiling. Of course that is a consequence of a war chest provided by deeply controversial Saudi Arabian investment, but the players in black and white are trending in a positive direction. They play with a purpose. They understand their roles. They are well drilled by Eddie Howe and have the depth to compete in more than one competition.