‘He was the one’: Murphy says unlikely United man was pulling the strings on Sunday – it’s a concern for INEOS

Danny Murphy has singled out Casemiro as the player who pulled the strings for Manchester United in their hard-fought win over Fulham.The midfielder directly contributed to United’s 3-2 triumph by netting the opening goal, which marked his fifth of the season, before also assisting compatriot Matheus Cunha for United’s second via a tremendous no-look through ball.  ❌ 👀 Casemiro’s no-look pass to tee up Matheus Cunha 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/6x74llb2f4 — Premier League (@premierleague) February 1, 2026Casemiro lauded for game-defining display vs Cottagers(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)It says something that, after Casemiro was withdrawn in the 75th minute and replaced by Manuel Ugarte, the Reds conceded twice in the space of six minutes following Raul Jimenez’s converted spot-kick in the 85th minute.Benjamin Sesko’s emphatic finish at the other end then secured United’s deserved three points, making it a trio of wins on the bounce under Michael Carrick.Reacting to the afternoon’s affairs at Old Trafford on BBC’s Match of the Day, Murphy said of United’s No.18: “He was the calm. He was the one making things happen.”Who will United deem worthy enough to succeed Casemiro?(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)While all well and true, the pundit’s words do perhaps raise a concern regarding what INEOS do to replace the 33-year-old ahead of next season.Casemiro announced last month that he would indeed be pulling the curtains on his United career after four years when his contract expires in June, despite the club having the option of keeping him for an additional 12 months.United have been, and will continue to be, linked with a host of potential replacements, with their three main targets thought to be Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson.Each of the Premier League stars may cost around the £100 million mark if their employers are looking to get their money’s worth, and interest from other suitors will only drive the clubs’ demands up.For example, Liverpool are thought to be eyeing a deal for Wharton in the coming months, and Manchester City are firm admirers of Anderson.