Manchester United dealt injury blow before Liverpool FA Cup clash

Casemiro has been forced to withdraw from the Brazil squad through injury, casting doubt over his availability against Liverpool.

The Manchester United defensive midfielder returned to playing in Janaury from a previous knock. Casemiro has played in all but one Premier League fixture for Erik ten Hag's side in 2024 but now faces a potential spell on the sidelines.

A statement from the Brazilian Football Federation confirmed that Porto striker Pepe had been called up to replace the 32-year-old, leading to doubts over Casemiro's participation in Sunday's quarter-final against Liverpool. It would be the 18th game the former Real Madrid player has missed through injury for United this season.

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Brazil manager Dorival Junior, speaking ahead of fixtures against England and Spain, added: "We have just received a report from Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar. From a pre-list made by the Brazilian National Team's technical committee with 50 names, 13 of them were already away due to injury at their clubs. Unfortunately, we also lost Casemiro. Therefore, Pepe, from Porto, a native striker who now plays as a midfielder, is called up."

The news is a blow to United who are looking to keep alive their only hopes of winning a trophy this season. Ten Hag's team also face a battle to secure Champions League football for next season as they currently sit eight points off the top four which will guarantee a place in Europe's elite competition.

In more positive news for United, striker Rasmus Hojland is available for