Man Utd star Casemiro at risk of another suspension after Crystal Palace red card

Casemiro is at risk of missing Manchester United’s Europa League clash with Real Betis.

United will look to bounce back from their harrowing 7-0 defeat to Liverpool on Thursday when they take on Betis in the Europa League last-16.

Indeed, the Old Trafford club were dealt their heaviest defeat since Boxing Day 1931 on Sunday, with Jurgen Klopp’s side running riot at a rauccous Anfield.

Erik ten Hag was deeply critical of his players after the game, insisting that they failed to “fulfil their jobs” and “stick together” during the Liverpool capitulation.

The United boss added: “It was a surprise for me, I haven't seen this from my team I don't think it's us, I don't think it's Manchester United. It's really bad and poor."

Ten Hag will be looking for a response when United take on Betis, though they may have to play one of the legs without Casemiro.

Casemiro on verge of Europa League suspension

Casemiro is one yellow card away from Europa League suspension, and should he be booked on Thursday against Betis, he will be suspended for the second leg on March 16.

Indeed, Article 52.02, Section B, of the UEFA rulebook states: “From the first match in the group stage, players and team officials are suspended for the next competition match after three cautions, which did not result in a red card, as well as following any subsequent odd-numbered caution (fifth, seventh, ninth, etc.).”

Casemiro was booked in both legs of the club’s Europa League play-off tie with Barcelona, and should he receive another in the first leg against Betis, he will be suspended for the reverse fixture.

The midfielder only recently returned from a three-match domestic ban after picking up a red card in last month's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

There had also been doubts over whether Casemiro would be fit to play in the first leg against Real Betis after he suffered a knock in the defeat to Liverpool at the weekend.

But speaking to MUTV on Wednesday, United boss Ten Hag suggested the Brazilian would be available to face the Spanish side.

"We have a strong programme. But I think we are quite good. The only disappointment is Marcel Sabitzer is not available, as well as Anthony Martial," said the Dutchman.

"Anthony Martial is back on the pitch, so we will see. For the rest, everyone is available and we are ready for the game."

Topics: Football, Real Betis, Manchester United, Casemiro, Europa League, Liverpool, Erik Ten Hag

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.