Erik ten Hag has discussed Casemiro’s suspension and has revealed further absentees for Manchester United’s clash with Leeds.
United take on their northern rivals in the Premier League on Wednesday evening, as the Red Devils look to solidify their position inside the table’s top four.
Ten Hag’s side will be without the services of Casemiro for Leeds’ visit to Old Trafford after the midfielder was sent off during Saturday’s 2-1 win over Crystal Palace.
The Brazil international is facing a three-game suspension and Ten Hag admits his side will not appeal, despite his unhappiness with the decision.
Asked if an appeal was considered, the Dutchman told his pre-match press conference: “Considered [it] yeah. For me it wasn’t the right decision [to send him off] but I don’t think we have a chance in a legal process.”
Casemiro’s absence adds to the club’s issues in midfield, with Christian Eriksen ruled out until April with an ankle injury. Deadline-day arrival Marcel Sabitzer could come into the side after making his debut as a substitute at the weekend.
The Dutchman said he would not use the influential midfielder’s absence as an excuse.
“I always have to play with the players who are available and we have a squad, we have many good players in our squad who are also not playing in the starting XI and I have to do it,” Ten Hag said.
“After a game I can’t say ‘Casemiro is not there, Anthony Martial is not there,’ we have to win. United are capable and we have to win the games no matter who is on the pitch.”
Ten Hag provided a further update on his squad and confirmed that Scott McTominay, Anthony Martial and winger Antony would not feature against Leeds.
“They (McTominay and Martial) are not involved tomorrow,” he said. “The same with Antony also not available for tomorrow. We have to sort it out.”
