Erik: Casemiro was back to his best

The Brazil international has received two red cards this term, both only following VAR intervention rather than via on-field decisions, and some fans were concerned it may have been playing on the 31-year-old's mind since he returned from suspension.

However, the midfielder was on the top of his game from the first whistle against Villa, and unlucky not to get on the scoresheet when hitting the bar in the first half.

A major influence on proceedings, it was clear he was back to the sort of form that has led to him becoming a major contender for the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award.

Speaking in his after-match press conference, the boss fielded a question about the summer signing from Real Madrid and his current form.

"I think that, in every season, you see no-one is always playing brilliant and playing at such a high level," conceded Ten Hag. "And maybe, some games, also by suspension, the rhythm is broken and then you have to get back.

"But today, this was the Casemiro we have seen almost all season, and he brings so much in organisation and composure and determination.

"His leadership is then so important for us because others go with him. He is an example." 

Casemiro appears to have developed a knack of not only winning challenges, but also playing the ball off opponents in order to earn the throw-in or set-piece.

The much-decorated Brazilian showed off some effective no-look passes and brings an air of calmness to midfield matters, which proved important as the game wore on with only one goal in it.

Having been Man of the Match in one domestic cup final at Wembley, it will be hoped he can be in peak form and fitness when we take on Manchester City in the Emirates FA Cup final at the start of next month, as it is obvious our no.18 is such a key figure in Ten Hag's team.