Manchester United star Casemiro is set for a lengthy ban after being shown a straight red card against Southampton - and manager Erik ten Hag has already made his feelings clear on a suspension for one of his key players.
The Brazilian was given his marching orders by referee Anthony Taylor, after VAR review, following a high tackle on Saints midfielder Carlos Alcaraz.
Although replays showed the 31-year-old won the ball, VAR deemed the tackle to be a red card offence given the height at which the midfielder connected with his opponent, and the fact that Casemiro's boot went over the ball.
Advert
He will now miss the next four games, should United fail in any appeal to have the red card overturned.
The Brazilian will be unavailable for fixtures against Fulham (FA Cup), Newcastle, Brentford and Everton (all Premier League).
The red card is a major blow for Ten Hag's side, made worse by the fact that they were restricted to a 0-0 draw against the league's bottom side.
Advert
However, the Dutchman has already set out a clear stance on how he will deal with Casemiro's latest suspension.
Ten Hag sets clear stance on Casemiro suspension
Speaking during Casemiro's last suspension - a three-match ban after being sent off against Crystal Palace in February - Ten Hag stated he would not use the Brazilian's absence as an excuse.
He also commented on how his unavailability would give opportunities to other members of the squad.
Advert
Ten Hag explained (quotes via talkSPORT): "I always have to play with the players who are available and we have a squad. We have many good players in our squad who are also not playing in the starting XI and I have to do it.
"After a game I can't say, 'Casemiro is not there, Anthony Martial is not there'. We have to win. United are capable and we have to win the games no matter who is on the pitch."
Possible replacements for the Brazilian include Fred and Scott McTominay, while United will hope that Marcel Sabitzer is quickly back in contention after missing the Southampton clash due to a knock.
But with Christian Eriksen and Donny van de Beek both out, Ten Hag will have some challenging decisions to make - particularly if any of their other fully fit midfielders pick up injuries or suspensions before Casemiro returns to action.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Casemiro, Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United, Southampton, Premier League