Manchester United are about to find out if they have their Casemiro replacement

Of all the issues at Manchester United right now, perhaps the most alarming is that two of their best players from last season currently look completely devoid of any self-belief.

Marcus Rashford and Casemiro were the backbone of United's revitalised run a year ago, the two players who could be relied upon more than most to make the difference when it really mattered.

Now, they are a shell of their former selves, and neither player can argue if they find themselves dropped from the line-up when club football resumes in just under a fortnight's time.

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Erik ten Hag has a viable alternative for Rashford in the form of Alejandro Garnacho after a game-changing performance against Brentford, but United have struggled for cover in defensive midfield even before Casemiro was signed.

It might not be a problem for much longer. Sofyan Amrabat was initially signed to provide cover for United's midfield specialist; instead, he might be needed to replace him.

Casemiro's level of performance has been concerning throughout the campaign and continued again at the weekend in the dramatic comeback victory against Brentford.

His carelessness in possession was a key factor in the opening goal of the match, and he was the player sacrificed at half-time as Ten Hag made a tactical change.

The Brazilian has started all but one of United's matches this season, and the only one he didn't start was when he grabbed two late goals against Bayern Munich, but his four goals in all competitions have masked a worrying run out of form.

Casemiro is beginning to show signs of his veteran status, and while the 31-year-old was able to get by for the