“If I stay here…” – Will Fish asks Erik ten Hag not to make January transfer decision

Manchester United loanee Will Fish has explained his wish to stay at Hibernian for the coming season, hoping that United will not trigger his January exit clause.

Will Fish, born in February 2003, is a 20-year-old Manchester United centre-back who has captained youth teams across various levels since he joined in July 2019.

He has made one appearance for the club, replacing Daniel James deep into injury time during a 2-1 win over Wolves in May 2021, and is currently spending the season on loan at Scottish side Hibernian.

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Fish was recently asked whether United and Erik ten Hag could cut his loan deal short in the January transfer window, which is expected to happen to his United teammate Charlie McNeill. He explained that he wants United to ensure the clause isn’t triggered.

“I think they do, but to be honest with you, those discussions haven’t been had yet,” Fish replied. “It’s not something that I’m actively looking to do.

“If I stay here, that’s something that I would love to do (reach the top three). It’s still pretty early in the season but under the gaffer, his coaching team and the way he wants to play, I think a few more tweaks and building on leads, we can easily push for the third spot.”

Will Fish has played more minutes than any of his current defender teammates, playing 22 times for a total of 1,848 minutes, which equates to 20.5 90-minute games – an impressive return for the young player.

He also provided one assist during a Scottish League Cup 4-2 quarter-final win over St. Mirren, where he played 90 minutes.

There have been defence issues at United, with multiple centre-backs being injured across the campaign. Still, a recall is unlikely with Raphaël Varane, Harry Maguire, and Victor Lindelöf all fit and Jonny Evans and Lisandro Martínez expected to return within the next two months.