Harry Maguire's view on 'brilliant' Man Utd star sends transfer message to Ruben Amorim

Harry Maguire has hailed after the veteran midfielder starred in in the first leg of their semi-final clash. Casemiro scored United's opener and was also excellent defensively.

The 33-year-old won four tackles, made four clearances, had 109 touches and an 84 percent pass completion rate. Casemiro's long-term future at Old Trafford has been the subject of much speculation, with the midfielder linked with a move away this summer.

However, his recent performances have been much improved and it remains to be seen whether manager decides to keep him. Speaking after the win over Bilbao, told MUTV: "I think Casemiro was brilliant tonight.

"I definitely believe he was the Man of the Match. He was everywhere and he scored a crucial goal as well. I think the header was a lot more difficult than he made it look; there was spin on the ball from Manu's header. It was a great, controlled finish."

United legend was also full of praise for Casemiro, describing him as "sensational" while commentating for TNT Sports during the game. "I don't think Casemiro has put a foot wrong," Ferdinand said.

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"He's been sensational tonight. He has been so disciplined. People have been talking about getting rid of him, his legs have gone... But I tell you what, he's come to the fore when they have needed him.

"He's coaching this team through this and it's a massive moment in the season for them." Casemiro initially struggled for game time under Amorim, who suggested back in January that the Brazilian of the .

"Sometimes it's a lot of that. It's also a player's moment. We understand that Casemiro has other things nowadays," Amorim said. "The intelligence he has, understanding the game, understanding where the ball is going to fall but we're in a league that I can see, even in European competitions, the difference in intensity is big.

"And so, I feel that this team also needs players with a very high intensity. And sometimes we don't have that and sometimes that difference in characteristic can lead one player or another to play.

"Even the fact that the group has a certain characteristic as a group. I needed some players in certain positions with a slightly different pace. But we all know the quality Casemiro has and everything he won. And so, I have nothing to say about that. It's just a choice."

And when asked about his future in March, Casemiro said: "It's too soon to talk about next season, but of course I have another year of contract and then an option. We have important games...

"It's too soon to talk about next season. I'm here, I'm available, with total happiness, and I'm ready for the coach and the club. As everyone knows, I'm a big character for the club."

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