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Gary Neville has heaped praise on Manchester United star Casemiro for his impact on the squad.
The Brazilian joined the Red Devils from Real Madrid in a shock transfer last summer and has since established himself as a key figure in Erik ten Hag's side. He has made 48 appearances for United across competitions this season and contributed 12 goals, which is impressive for a defensive midfielder.
Most noteably, Casemiro was on target against Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final as he lifted his first piece of silverware at Old Trafford.
Neville, a former United player and now an acclaimed pundit for Sky, has said that Casemiro is the best signing of the Premier League this season while discussing the end-of-season awards on Monday Night Football. He told Sky Sports:
"I could not think of a player who has had a bigger impact on their team. I look at United's season: they are in the top four; they won the Carabao Cup, and they are in the FA Cup final. I genuinely don't think they would be anywhere near top four or doing what they are doing in those competitions without Casemiro. He makes them 30 per cent better."
Casemiro rose to prominence for his achievements with Real Madrid in the previous eight years, during which he lifted five Champions League and two La Liga titles.
Neville feels this experience has helped Manchester United get better, as there's visible difference in their performance when he's not playing. He added:
"I have doubts about the five-year deal and the expense of it, but in terms of the jump in performance when he is playing to when he is not playing, it is enormous. He has brought experience to the dressing room, and I think he has done a good job."
Casemiro will look to pick up his second title with Manchester United next week as they play Manchester City in the FA Cup final on June 3.
Casemiro's importance to Manchester United highlighted in Bournemouth win
Casemiro scored the winner for Manchester United in their 1-0 Premier League win over Bournemouth last weekend. The Brazilian struck an astonishing acrobatic volley from close range in the ninth minute, which was enough to seal all three points.
It was another reminder of his importance to the squad. The 31-year-old's ball-winning abilities and tactical awareness have bolstered Manchester United's midfield, but his eye for goal also makes him an attacking threat.
Casemiro's excellent reading of the game can be gauged from the fact that he averages 3.2 tackles and 2.3 clearances per game as the former Real Madrid star has had a big impact in his first year at the club.
