The absence of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro is one of the main reasons why Manchester United are struggling for results in recent weeks as games are “decided in midfield”, manager Erik ten Hag said on Tuesday.

Danish midfielder Eriksen was ruled out for up to three months in late January due to an ankle injury, while Casemiro is serving a four-match suspension after receiving his second red card of the season.

The Brazilian has been one of Ten Hag’s most influential players since he was signed in a deal worth €70 million ($76 million), with United losing four of their eight league games without him compared with three of 19 when he has played.

Christian Eriksen. File photo

“They’re two quality players in the midfield department, games will always be decided in midfield,” Ten Hag told reporters ahead of Wednesday’s home game against seventh-placed Brentford.

“So when you miss two quality players, it’s clear. But you have a squad, if you don’t have them you still have to win.”

While Casemiro is suspended for two more matches — against Brentford and Everton — Ten Hag said Eriksen is back in training but not yet ready for action.

“Not for tomorrow but he’s returning on the pitch... we have to see now how quickly he can make progress,” Ten Hag added.

United’s 2-0 loss to Newcastle United over the weekend dropped Ten Hag’s side to fifth in the standings on goal difference.