Casemiro's gesture to Manchester United teammates spotted before Aston Villa game

Midfield enforcer Casemiro was among several people gathered inside the Old Trafford tunnel supporting the players ahead of Manchester United's clash with Aston Villa kicked-off at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

The Brazilian international, who is being heavily linked with the prospect of leaving Old Trafford ahead of next month's transfer window, is still unavailable as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury. He has not played since being forced off in the 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United on November 1.

Casemiro returned to training at Carrington earlier this month and was pictured back on the grass, offering signs of encouragement that a return might not be too far away. Manager Erik ten Hag confirmed last month that he did not expect him to play again until after Christmas.

READ MORE: Erik ten Hag hints at new United attack

READ MORE: Sir Jim Ratcliffe investment in United to deny Glazer family dividends

Though he was not at the peak of his powers prior to his injury, with his performance levels not at the same heights as they were last season, his robustness in the engine room has been missed, as well as his experience. He has featured just 12 times so far this season.

Though it is not yet crystal clear when he could add to that tally, he was in attendance at Old Trafford on Boxing Day, pictured being situated inside the tunnel ahead of kick-off. He was stood at the back of the tunnel with various matchday officials and United staff members as the players prepared to emerge from the tunnel, brilliantly supporting his teammates.

Fellow absentees Harry Maguire and Amad were also in attendance, watching the game from the directors' box. Maguire has missed the last three matches with a small injury problem