Manchester United midfielder Casemiro was simply brilliant in the Red Devils’ 3-0 triumph over Crystal Palace.
Casemiro was expected to be one of the players rested, given he had started every game for club and country this season.
Erik ten Hag may have hoped that the Brazilian would play himself into shape. So far this season, he’s been up and down.
Perhaps this will be a watershed moment for him. Against a mediocre Palace side, it was a comprehensive performance.
Casemiro is United top scorer
Casemiro was on the scoresheet for Manchester United, netting a header from Mason Mount’s pinpoint corner kick to make it 2-0.
He extended his lead as Manchester United’s top scorer with four goals for the season now. He also netted against Nottingham Forest, and against Bayern Munich (twice).
Bruno Fernandes is nearest to him with two goals. The Portuguese star sat out against Palace, rested for a rare 90 minutes.
Casemiro also provided an assist, setting up Anthony Martial for his first goal of the campaign. It was the Brazilian’s first assist.
Casemiro game by numbers
Casemiro was outstanding, helping United to control possession and even got the chance to play alongside new signing Sofyan Amrabat for the first time.
Amrabat started at full-back, before playing 15 minutes in midfield alongside Casemiro in the second half before he was substituted.
Casemiro had 122 touches in total, completing 100 passes from 113 attempts.
Off the ball he made three interceptions, and won three duels, making a further six ball recoveries.
This was more like the Casemiro we know. Now we look for a repeat performance at the weekend against the same opponents.