'Totally not true' - Ruud van Nistelrooy launches defence of Man United star after Leicester win

Manchester United interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy launched a passionate defence of Casemiro after his brace on Wednesday night.

Van Nistelrooy was placed in interim charge of United following Erik ten Hag's departure on Monday and oversaw an emphatic victory over Leicester in his first game at the helm.

Casemiro opened the scoring with a world-class strike in the 15th minute, finding the top right corner with a thunderous effort from 25 yards, and United had a 4-2 lead at the interval thanks to goals from Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes and another from Casemiro.

Fernandes made it 5-2 in the second half, scoring the goal that ended the game as a contest, and United made it through to the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup with minimal fuss.

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Van Nistelrooy spoke to MUTV at full-time and said: "I couldn't ask for more. The first goal was an unbelievable, top corner and a fantastic finish. Then was also some luck today, I have to say.

"We had luck on our side with the double post, coming back to Casemiro and the Bruno deflection, but delighted for him because the first one went in. Then you see more goals coming.

"So delighted for him as well. A good goal from Garna and a good assist from Diogo and what was the other one? Have I covered all five goals? It was a great night."

The Dutchman praised Casemiro, saying he was "delighted" for the Brazilian to score twice against Leicester after a character-testing period. "I was delighted for Casemiro. The way he's been training and helping the team, the club, it's such an example," he added.

"You also see the crowd's reaction and they know what he's about. I'm delighted to have him around and going through difficult moments, he got a lot of criticism after the Liverpool game. It's so hard, he was almost the one to blame for that game and it's not fair, he didn't deserve that and it's totally not true.

"If you see him train and prepare for games, with the history and all he's achieved with five Champions Leagues, he's an example for us and that was part of my celebration - I was happy for him."

Fernandes also received praise from Van Nistelrooy for his goals. "It's fantastic, I wasn't worried about him because I see him every day in training, the way he prepares and helps the team," he said.

"He's taking a lot on his shoulders to help the players and the club. He's so responsible for everything within the club and today he was free, I said go and play well. I told him to enjoy it and I was delighted for him when he scored his first goal and then the goals start coming, so hopefully more come."