MANCHESTER United have received a welcome boost ahead of their visit to Saints, with new signing Casemiro awarded a work permit in time to be registered.
The 30-year-old defensive midfielder arrives at Old Trafford in a deal worth around £60million, and was unveiled in front of fans ahead of their 2-1 win over Liverpool.
The five-time Champions League-winner, who also represents Brazil at international level, was not signed in time to feature versus United’s rivals.
As it happened, he was not needed – Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford scored their first goals of the campaign to make Mohamed Salah’s merely late consolation.
Casemiro is now set to make his Premier League debut at St Mary’s on Saturday (12:30PM), as Erik Ten Hag and Ralph Hasenhuttl’s sides look to build on a first win.
"The opportunity to start a new challenge at Manchester United and in the Premier League is extremely exciting,” Casemiro said after signing with the Red Devils.
“I have worked with many great managers in my career and, having met with Erik and heard his ideas, I can’t wait to work closely with him, his staff and my new teammates in the coming years.
“Everybody knows the history of Manchester United, the significance of the club around the world and what it means to its supporters. To represent United is an honour and I am ready to give everything to help the team achieve our ambitions.”
United are likely to be without defender Victor Lindelof and young forward Facundo Pellistri, who have been battling fitness so far this season. The latter is not expected to return this month.
Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo was only a late substitute in the win over Liverpool at Old Trafford and could again be left on the bench for the trip to Saints this weekend.
A message from the Editor
Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.
Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.
You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.
Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.
Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook
Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel