Erik ten Hag has told Casemiro he will still play a key role this season – despite spending £50million on Manuel Ugarte to replace him.

Ugarte is expected to make his debut at Southampton, in place of Casemiro, who had a nightmare in United's 3-0 hiding to arch rivals Liverpool a fortnight ago.

Casemiro was at fault for Liverpool's first two goals and suffered the indignity of being hauled off at half-time by Ten Hag and replaced by 20-year-old Toby Collyer.

Despite that humiliation and the fact Ugarte has been brought in to replace him as United's first-choice holding midfielder, Ten Hag has told Casemiro he will still need to call upon him.

Liverpool appoint new captain as exciting partnership comes together	Ex-Liverpool and Spurs youngster reveals what made Liverpool more special	'Going to have an issue' - Virgil van Dijk sends Liverpool warning before Champions League return

“You definitely need him, for sure,” said Ten Hag, who revealed he has spoken to Casemiro about his role and the decision to sign Ugarte from Paris St Germain.

Man Utd signed Manuel Ugarte from Paris St Germain for £50million to replace Casemiro.

Ten Hag is hopeful Uruguay international Ugarte can make an instant impact at United and bring greater security to his midfield, which has been a weak link at the start of the season.

“He’s been on my radar a long time,” said Ten Hag.

Ten Hag insists United will still need Casemiro.