Former Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has lauded the impact of both Raphael Varane and Casemiro in Thursday night's Europa League win over Barcelona.
Erik ten Hag's side ran out 2-1 winners at Old Trafford to secure a 4-3 aggregate victory against the Catalan giants. The first leg ended 2-2 after a pulsating clash at the Camp Nou, thanks to a Marcus Rashford strike and an own goal from Jules Kounde.
In the second leg, United went a goal down after Robert Lewandowski put the visitors in front from the penalty spot. However, second-half goals from Fred and Antony turned the tie on its head and sealed the Red's spot in the last-16 of the competition.
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While the goalscorers understandably stole the headlines, it was defensive midfielder Casemiro and centre-back Varane who impressed Van Persie on the night. The Dutchman suggested that the experience from their days together at Real Madrid can only benefit Ten Hag's side this season.
"Casemiro, Varane, these guys are winners and can get you through a tough moment in a game," Van Persie told BT Sport. "They have been showing it. Even though they were behind, I still felt they could come back in the game. That is the sign of a top team."
Meanwhile, former United ace Owen Hargreaves insisted that Lisandro Martinez also played an integral part in the victory over Barcelona.
He said: "I think Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez were fabulous, the spirit of those two, Martinez and Casemiro was fantastic."
Discussing the 'personalities' he can call upon within his squad, Ten Hag stated: "I think we have some great personalities in the team like Rafa [Varane] and Martinez. Antony and Garnacho don’t fear anyone, then Bruno and Casemiro of course. We have great personalities. When you have a setback they carry on and try to get a result."
Varane, Casemiro and Martinez all have the opportunity to secure their first piece of silverware on Sunday when United take on Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley. The Reds are aiming to lift their first trophy since 2017.
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