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.

Daily Echo:

"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.

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