Erik ten Hag and David de Gea in full agreement over Premier League row

Manchester United failed to get back to winning ways in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, as they were held by Southampton.

The Saints secured a goalless draw at Old Trafford after Casemiro was sent off during the first half. The United star was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on midfielder Carlos Alcaraz, which allowed Southampton to take control of the game.

The result leaves United third in the Premier League – 16 points behind leaders Arsenal with a game in hand and six ahead of Newcastle in fifth having played a game more. Here is the best of the reaction to Sunday afternoon’s drab clash in Manchester.

Ten Hag and De Gea in full agreement

Erik ten Hag and David de Gea both questioned the standard of refereeing in the Premier League after Casemiro’s latest red card.

“Casemiro played over 500 games in Europe and never once got a red card,” Ten Hag told Sky Sports at full-time. “Now he has two in the Premier League. His absence is not the issue. We will deal with that. This game was influenced by the referee.”

De Gea added, “I think Casemiro was unlucky. He tried to touch the ball and his foot came up high. I think the referees need to show more consistency.

“Sometimes they show a red card and sometimes they don’t… It’s going to be tough [without him], he’s a big player. We will miss him for four games but we have a big squad. We have players coming from the bench who do well. We will keep working hard.”

Casemiro’s reaction speaks volumes

Casemiro was in tears after being sent off on Sunday afternoon, which shows just how much playing for the Red Devils means to him. The Brazil international was consoled by his compatriot Antony after receiving his matching orders from referee Anthony Taylor.

Casemiro has now been sent off twice in his last three Premier League outings. He was dismissed for violent conduct during the 1-0 win against Crystal Palace in February after putting his hands around Will Hughes’ neck.

Casemiro’s suspension explained

Casemiro will serve a four-match ban for his dismissal on Sunday afternoon.

That is because the Brazilian has been sent off twice this season. He will now miss United’s upcoming Premier League fixtures against top-four rivals Newcastle (away), European hopefuls Brighton (home) and relegation contenders Everton (home).

Casemiro will also be unavailable for this Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham at Old Trafford, with a trip to Wembley at stake.

The good news for Ten Hag is Casemiro will be available for United’s Europa League clash against Real Betis on Thursday. The Red Devils will take a commanding 4-1 lead into the second leg of the last-16 tie after running riot during the first game at Old Trafford.