Manchester United have three games to prove Erik ten Hag right about Casemiro comments

Five weeks after scoring the opener in Manchester United's Carabao Cup final triumph over Newcastle United at Wembley, Casemiro will be forced to take up a watching brief when the two sides meet again on Sunday.

United's trip to St James' Park will mark the second game of the Brazilian midfielder's four-match ban, following his second red card of the season during last month's goalless draw with Southampton. He was dismissed for a first half challenge on Saints midfielder Carlos Alcaraz, marking his second dismissal in just three Premier League appearances.

He has, of course, been one of United's star performers this season, playing a vital role in the club's transformation under manager Erik ten Hag. The £60million the Reds paid for him has looked more and more of a bargain as the season has developed, meaning he ought to be a shoo-in for anyone tasked with selecting a Premier League Team of the Season over the next few weeks.

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However, his latest suspension means that he will play no part in what promises to be a pivotal week in United's season and their quest for a top-four finish. After facing Newcastle on Sunday, the Reds have back-to-back home games against Brentford and Everton on Wednesday evening and next Saturday lunchtime, respectively.

Although United have become used to a demanding schedule this season, three league matches in just seven days promises to take its toll, particularly when Ten Hag is not blessed with options in midfield. It is a situation that is not helped by the absence of Christian Eriksen. He has been sidelined since January with an ankle injury and is not ready to make his return just yet, despite making encouraging