Why Casemiro will miss 4 games, and not 3, after red card vs Southampton

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro will serve a four-game domestic suspension after being sent off against Southampton on Sunday afternoon.

The Brazil international, 31, was shown his march orders for a reckless lunge on Carlos Alcaraz during the first half of their Premier League fixture at Old Trafford. Casemiro was initially booked for the challenge but the decision was overturned on a VAR review.

As Casemiro has already been sent off once in the Premier League this season, he will serve a four-match domestic ban rather than the usual three. That will wreak havoc on United's Premier League and FA Cup campaigns during the coming month.

Casemiro will be unavailable to take part in United's upcoming Premier League games against top-four rivals Newcastle, European hopefuls Brentford and relegation candidates Everton. He will also miss their FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham at Old Trafford.

The ban is not applicable for European competitions, meaning Casemiro will be available for the second leg of United's last-16 Europa League clash against Real Betis on Thursday. The Red Devils will take a commanding 4-1 lead to Spain for that clash.

Casemiro will also be available for the quarter-finals of the Europa League should United progress. Nevertheless, the red card is a blow for United's domestic hopes. Casemiro has played a pivotal role in their success this season - helping them win the Carabao Cup.