Paul Scholes names Roy Keane trait Casemiro has that will improve two Manchester United players

Paul Scholes thinks Casemiro could free up Scott McTominay and Fred to be more effective going forward, just as Roy Keane did for him at Manchester United.

Brazilian Casemiro came on as a second-half substitute for his debut in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Southampton. The 30-year-old, who has joined on a four-year deal, is seen as the solution for the defensive midfield void in Erik ten Hag’s team.

Alongside Fred, McTominay has been asked to operate in that role in recent times but has struggled to make the impact many United fans longed for. He appears likely to be the man who makes way for Casemiro in the starting line-up long-term, despite impressing on the South Coast on Saturday.

READ MORE: United player ratings from 1-0 win vs Southampton

The Scot started his third game of the season against Southampton, playing the full 90 minutes. Scholes believes that, when used, both McTominay and Fred will benefit from Casemiro’s qualities as a defensive midfielder.

"I think Scott’s better going forward,” Scholes told BT Sport. “He’s been asked to play in that midfield role - I don’t think he’s that good at it and I don’t think Fred’s good at it either.

“They’re both better going forward and with Casemiro, having that player who plays the position brilliantly next to you or behind you is valuable, invaluable. I had Carrick, Roy Keane. It gives you freedom."

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