Casemiro, McAllister, Sheringham, Milner and the art of agelessness
A long look at longevity ...
Always leave them wanting more. Casemiro leaves the Theatre of Dreams with a clamour and plea for him to stay. But that’s it, the Brazilian insists, four more games for Manchester United and he’s off, contract completed, farewell hugs done, bags packed, badge kissed. He’s not for returning. Casemiro’s actually never played better for United, scoring four times in his past six games, dovetailing well with Kobbie Mainoo and supporting Bruno Fernandes well. He’ll be missed for his contributions, personality and professionalism. He’ll be missed because he cares about the team and club. Casemiro will be missed because football is more than employment for him, it’s enjoyment, emotion, engagement, and winning. When he suffered a poor spell, and was derided, Casemiro fought back, and is loved even more for that proud reaction.
He’s still a force at 34. United want to rebuild their central midfield but Casemiro’s a tough act to follow. The Premier League prides itself on pace and physicality but there is always a place and space for intelligent players like Casemiro, who read the game so well. So here’s a look at five players who also delivered in their 30s. The passing of the years is also the accumulation of experience.
Gary McAllister was 35, a year older than Casemiro, when leaving Coventry City for Liverpool in 2000. He was on a free, many felt his career was winding down but he enjoyed momentous times in those 87 appearances. McAllister scored vital goals in that first season, converted his penalty in the League Cup final shootout, then scored one, contributed to three and won man of the match in the Uefa Cup final – at 36. He also guided Liverpool into the Champions League. “My most inspirational signing,” Gerard Houllier said.