Gary Neville has chastised Manchester United’s Harry Maguire and Casemiro for putting the squad under strain during their 2-1 victory over Luton Town.
Rasmus Hojlund scored twice early on to lead United to victory.
Carlton Morris reduced the Hatters’ deficit, but Erik ten Hag’s side held on to take all three points at Kenilworth Road.
Luton put United under pressure for much of the game, particularly in the first 45 minutes. This was due in part to Maguire and Casemiro, who both had moments of lunacy that put them at risk of receiving a second yellow card.
Ten Hag chose to replace both seasoned stars at halftime, aware of the potential of losing a man or two. He replaced Casemiro and Maguire with Scott McTominay and Jonny Evans, respectively.
After the game, Gary Neville spoke with Sky Sports (via The Express) and discussed United’s performance.
The club icon stated, “I believe United deserved to win. I believe the second half performance was better and more measured than the first half. The opening ten minutes were wonderful, but I believe Luton could have scored two or three goals in that time. In the second half, Luton’s final third let them down.”
“But I thought United defended well; [Jonny] Evans and [Raphael] Varane were well-positioned on those crosses.” Obviously, the four one-on-ones—[Alejandro] Garnacho had one, Hojlund had one, and I believe Bruno Fernandes had two big chances.”
“They should have chosen at least one of the four. I think they were much more professional and measured in the second half.”
Neville continued, “In the first half, they lost their discipline. Maguire and Casemiro needed to be hooked at halftime since they were inconsistent at times. You wonder how they can get from here (high up) to there (low down) in the course of a half-game.
“That’s what they are: inconsistent. Even though they did not score, Ten Hag will be very pleased with their second-half showing.
Fortunately for United, Casemiro and Maguire’s errors did not cost them too much.
The Red Devils next face Fulham at Old Trafford on Saturday.