Erik ten Hag can strengthen Manchester United's midfield and save the club millions this summer

Despite winning just three of their last eight Premier League matches, you would have to be brave to bet against Manchester United finishing outside of the top four this season.

Following Sunday's goalless draw with Southampton, United have reached the 50-point mark after 26 games and are guaranteed to spend the upcoming international break occupying a Champions League place, ahead of the beginning of the final sprint to the finish line at the start of April. Though there have been a few bumps in the road this season, certainly in recent weeks, they have made tremendous strides under manager Erik ten Hag and are on course to secure their ultimate objective this term.

However, the disappointment of the 0-0 draw with Southampton was compounded by the dismissal of Casemiro. The Brazilian was sent off during the first half following a VAR review and must now serve a four-game domestic ban.

READ MORE: Three ways United can line-up without Casemiro

With the season reaching a crucial juncture, Ten Hag could not have asked to be without his midfield talisman at a more important stage, especially with United still striving for more silverware and a top-four finish. He will miss Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final with Fulham and the Premier League fixtures with Newcastle United, Brentford and Everton immediately after the upcoming pause.

To make matters worse, of course, United are already without fellow midfielder Christian Eriksen. He has been sidelined since January with an ankle injury and is not set to be available again until late April at the earliest, meaning the Reds have once again been stripped of both members of one of their strongest partnerships.

The Reds have sorely missed Eriksen's ability to control and dictate games