Sunday’s 0-0 draw between Manchester United and bottom-place Southampton in the Premier League was marred by the dismissal of midfielder Casemiro.

As a result of the pivotal Brazilian’s high kick against Carlos Alcaraz in the 34th minute, the struggling visitors gained confidence, and the game became more open with good chances at both ends.

Bruno Fernandes, the team’s captain, came the closest for United with a low shot that struck the post, while Marcus Rashford, a typically dangerous attacker, saw a shot well saved in a one-on-one situation with goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu.

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Theo Walcott’s point-blank header and subsequent chipped shot were both brilliantly stopped by David de Gea for Southampton. Kyle Walker-Peters also hit the post, and James Ward-free Prowse’s kick came dangerously close.

At one point, United player Scott McTominay came dangerously close to scoring an own goal, but Aaron Wan-Bissaka intercepted the ball.

The outcome was not what United boss Erik ten Hag intended following last week’s 7-0 league loss to Liverpool, and it was a letdown after their electrifying 4-1 Europa League victory over Real Betis in the middle of the week.

His club maintained third place with 50 points, 16 points behind league leaders Arsenal, but was still comfortably in the top four spots that qualified for the Champions League the next season.