Erik ten Hag identifies two ‘valuable’ Man Utd players who can boost top four charge
Erik ten Hag believes that Christian Eriksen and Casemiro will be instrumental in Manchester United’s pursuit of a top-four finish.
 Manchester United returned to winning ways against Brentford on Wednesday night thanks to a goal by Marcus Rashford.
Their league form has been a cause for concern, as this was their first victory in four matches, Newcastle United are now third, and Tottenham are only three points behind in fifth.
United have struggled without Brazil international Casemiro, who received a four-match ban after receiving his second consecutive red card of the season in the scoreless draw with Southampton.
Eriksen’s imminent return will however provide ten Hag with a significant midfield boost.
The Dane was sidelined in January due to an ankle injury sustained in the FA Cup victory over Reading, but he is expected to be available for Saturday’s match against Everton.
Casemiro will sit out the final game of his suspension at Old Trafford and will be available for next weekend’s match against Nottingham Forest, with ten Hag optimistic that their presence will bolster the team.
“It’s obvious and clear that two very valuable players (are coming back), especially so in midfield,’ ten Hag told a press conference on Friday.
“We all know how important the midfield department is and what we have had to do in several games is find a new balance and that’s not so easy to find in this stage of the season.
“Sometimes it’s also a little bit trial and error bringing new players in, bringing players in a different position so that’s what we did.
“We have to make it a really successful season and we have a great squad now.
“So I’m really positive to get a good final stage of the season and to get even more silverware.”
Eriksen started all but one of United’s league games prior to his injury. His return will be a huge boost for the remainder of the season, as his team remains competitive in the Europa League and FA Cup.
Erik ten Hag identifies two ‘valuable’ Man Utd players who can boost top four charge
