Casemiro has detailed key reason why Erik ten Hag sanctioned Manchester United transfer

"We're looking for a player who can play in the holding midfield position, but it has to be the right one," Erik ten Hag said when asked about his transfer strategy on finding a defensive midfielder.

"There are not many in that position capable of the level we demand. We have a list and we will strike the moment the player is available."

It was clear when he made those comments last month that the new Manchester United boss knew exactly what he was looking for and would not settle for below what was required. A large part of his ethos at United has been about mentality.

READ MORE: Three things spotted in first Casemiro training session

It’s something he highlighted frequently in his criticism of his players after the 4-0 humiliation to Brentford. The match laid bare the utter necessity of a defensive midfield signing and within a week, a new recruit was acquired – and it wasn’t Frenkie de Jong.

Some have mooted that Casemiro’s signing seems slapdash and hasty, pointing to the 30-year-old’s four-year deal, with an option of a further 12 months, as evidence. But the Brazilian’s comments show Ten Hag has got someone of his ilk.

Casemiro described himself as "a player that gives everything on the pitch, but not just over 90 minutes, in training too." He added: "For me is the most important thing."

"You train as you play and I think, regardless of the scoreline or what's happening on the pitch. Of course everyone wants to win matches, win in training, learn in training, but I'm one of those players who wants to go home and know that I've done my job."

This marries up perfectly with what Ten Hag said earlier this summer when asked what he expects from his players at United. "I look to the player and I have a certain demand,"