Casemiro praises Brazil's World Cup squad depth but insists 'best player' Neymar cannot be replaced

Manchester United star Casemiro has spoken on the difficulties Brazil face with their talisman Neymar ruled out of the World Cup group stage through injury.

Neymar being forced off injured in the second-half put a dampener on Brazil's opening game victory over Serbia, and Casemiro candidly explained how potentially damaging losing their star man could be.

'He is one of the best players in the world and, unfortunately, he will not be there for the next game.' The former Real Madrid star told reporters before Brazil's game against Switzerland.

'We have quality players, but, when comparing them with Neymar, it's difficult to find one at his level.

We have other players who are playing well: Vinicius, Raphinha, Richarlison, Jesus, Rodrygo, Martinelli… the range of options is broad, which is good for us, but we have to be realistic and accept that Neymar is the best player in our team.'

The PSG star was forced off in the closing stages of the win over Serbia after finding himself on the receiving end of a strong tackle from Nikola Milenkovic.

A nation held its collective breath after Neymar was replaced, fearing that the forward may face another injury heartbreak at the competition, eight years after he suffered a fractured vertebra on home soil in 2014.

However, the latest reports from the Brazil camp offer a much more optimistic perspective on Neymar's injury, with the 30-year-old saying in a statement that he is confident of returning to action soon.

The PSG star wrote on Instagram: 'Nothing in my life came easy and I've always had to work for my dreams and goals. I have never wished anyone anything bad and always helped who needed.

'I'm injured, yes it's not nice, it will hurt but I'm sure I will have the chance to come back because I'll do everything possible to help my country, my team-mates and myself.'

Tite's side will look to continue their unbeaten start to the tournament when they take on Switzerland on Monday, before rounding off their group against Cameroon on Friday.