Casemiro speaks out about Man Utd centre-back role after being skewered by fans and pundits

Casemiro has spoken out about playing centre-back for Manchester United.

After a glittering first campaign at Old Trafford, Casemiro has endured a dismal second season.

In particular, the five-time Champions League winner’s recent performances at centre-back have drawn widespread negative attention, with the player having been directly responsible for the concession of goals against Crystal Palace and Arsenal.

And speaking to international broadcasters, via United's official site, Casemiro admitted that while he doesn’t feel comfortable playing in the backline, he is happy to do a job there should it be required by manager Erik ten Hag.

"I mean I've done it probably two or three times, in my time at Real Madrid, playing centre-half," the Brazil international revealed. "But everyone knows that I am a central midfielder. It's not a role that I like to do but, you know what, I do it with the absolute best will in the world.

"As soon as the manager asks the question: 'Would you be able to play in that role?' Of course, I would. Absolutely. I do it to help the team, the manager, the clubs, the fans. That is what you do. And I do it, as I say because I'm delighted to help out if I can.

"I know it's something which, you use the word 'adapted', and it's something that I've tried to do to help the side but, yeah, I'm a central midfield player. All my life, all my career. Obviously, that is where I prefer to play."

Casemiro added that the campaign had been made more difficult by a lack of continuity in defence, with the team having been dealt several injuries in the backline.

Casemiro has struggled at centre-back for United (Getty)

"Obviously, I prefer to be further forward in midfield but, if the rest of the side was as per normal, it would be easier to slot in, I'm sure," he added. "But, as I repeat, I do it. I do it to help my teammates.

"Everyone knows I'm not a centre-half. I'm a holding midfielder, that is what I've been all my life but my philosophy is you know when you're in a team, you do things to help that team and help your team-mates out. That's the key.

"There are different types of leaders. You know, there are leaders who show and lead by example. I guess that's maybe what I've been doing. Leading by example. I mentioned before that the manager asked me to fulfil that role in defence and I did it with great pleasure.

"You know there might be the odd error because I'm not a centre-half but it's still doing your best for my team-mates. I know they've been going all out and trying really hard to help me out there on the field in this new role."