Man United could have found their long-term Casemiro replacement in Toby Collyer

Man United may have the solution to their long-term defensive midfield problems in the form of Toby Collyer.

Manchester United started their pre-season tour with a 1-0 loss away at Rosenborg yesterday evening, in a game during which the Old Trafford club never really had a chance.

Our opponents are in the middle of their season. This was United’s first run out, utilising a squad with five first-teamers in it. There was a real gulf in fitness levels and experience, leaning heavily in favour of Rosenborg.

Two players shone; Radek Vitek in goal and Toby Collyer in midfield.

The Czech keeper made some outstanding saves to keep the Reds in it for as long as he could, though I’d like to focus on Collyer.

Our Worthing-born-midfielder recently penned a new contract extension, keeping him at the club for the foreseeable future.

Erik ten Hag has never shied away from admitting Collyer’s talents. Integrating him into the first-team was always part of the plan. He embraced the midfielder after the Reds’ FA Cup final win back in May, telling him that this could be in Collyer’s future if he continues to develop and grow.

The time is now for the young man.

The fact that Collyer, aged just 20, was given the captain’s armband for the second half against Rosenborg speaks volumes. This is a man who plays with a maturity beyond his years. It didn’t take long for Collyer to implement himself on the game against fully fit, fully grown men. Although on the wrong side of the result, the future certainly looks bright.

You get the feeling that Collyer is next in line for his big breakthrough. Many have pointed towards Shea Lacey and Harry Amass as the biggest talents at the club, though Collyer has often been overlooked. He can use that to his advantage with very little pressure on his shoulders as a result.

In terms of skillset, Collyer has it all. He’s tall, physical, two-footed and great on the ball. He has the composure and calmness that emulates Kobbie Mainoo. What’s not to like?

Casemiro is getting older. United could have their long-term replacement right under their noses. It’d save them an awful lot of money in the transfer market, with Manuel Ugarte being talked up as a big-money signing who can fill that void.

Honestly, I’d like to see Collyer given a fair crack at the whip this summer before a decision is made on signing a midfielder. This is exactly what these pre-season tour games are for. Why not utilise this insanely brilliant academy that this club has built over a number of years first?

Sure, it was just one half of football. Sometimes, that’s all you need. For Collyer, I feel confident in my belief that he’ll follow the Mainoo path rather than the Zidane Iqbal one. I just hope he’s continues to be given opportunities over the next few weeks.

Do you think Toby Collyer is good enough for Man United? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.

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