Casemiro’s most recent comments show clear Man United leadership trait needed

Casemiro has heaped praise on Manchester United winger Antony with the 22-year-old under pressure from the British media.

The Brazilian pair linked up to open the scoring in United’s 3-1 win over Reading in the FA Cup on Saturday evening.

Antony earned himself the Man of the Match award after receiving criticism in recent weeks over his ability after a tough personal restart to life at Old Trafford following the World Cup.

The winger was involved in a motorway crash that left him absent from United’s win against Bournemouth at the start of the new year. He admitted it was a ‘really difficult moment’ after scoring against Everton in the following match.

The footballing world is unforgiving, however. With Antony’s £85 million price tag clogging the headlines at the start of the season, it was always expected that he would be under the microscope after moving to Old Trafford.

After getting his first assist for the club against Reading – with a beautiful through ball to Casemiro – Antony was lauded by the goalscorer, as Casemiro pointed at the wide man after his celebration, urging the Stretford End to appreciate the pass that created the goal.

Casemiro also joined The Reds in the summer and has a great relationship with the former Ajax star. He came to the defence of his fellow Brazilian after the win, saying he believes Antony is a great talent and again ensured he was given credit for his assist on Saturday night.

“On my first goal, Antony’s pass was incredible,” Casemiro told reporters. “I know that people focus on who scored, but I wanted to give him a bit of love as the pass was magic. He’s an important player for us.

“He is exceptional. I know him very well, he is an incredible player, an incredible person that is giving the best that he can,” he added when speaking to club media.

The midfielder’s comments are a clear reflection of great leadership and will certainly give Antony a boost ahead of a bust schedule of fixtures.

It’s great to see that the club have multiple leaders within the group and that the five-times Champions League winner is encouraging the performances of a teammate who has struggled but clearly has the talent to succeed at United.