Man United fans noticed interesting Erik ten Hag decision in pre-season friendly, it was a huge compliment

Manchester United fans noticed an interesting decision from Erik ten Hag in their opening pre-season friendly against Norwegian side Rosenborg.

United fell to defeat after a last-minute goal from the hosts, following a game in which the Reds showed they were a team that only restarted training last week.

Rosenborg were a great first opponent, considering they are in the middle of their league campaign. The Norweigan outfit provided an energetic display.

Erik ten Hag would have been pleased with several performances, however, with goalkeeper Radek Vitek standing out with his saves throughout the game.

Yet, the manager decided to captain 20-year-old Toby Collyer for the second half of the clash – after 10 changes were made at the break.

Collyer was one of several impressive players during the second half. He played in the deepest midfield role, looking comfortable on the ball and aware off it.

The central midfielder put pen to paper a new deal at Old Trafford until 2027 last week, and it was reported that Ten Hag insisted on attending the contract signing.

It was explained that the Dutch manager “really likes” Collyer, whose personality and professionalism have impressed club staff.

This was displayed when the United boss decided to give Collyer the captaincy for the second half of the clash against Rosenborg, and many fans recognised why Ten Hag rates the academy talent so highly.

“Great to see Toby Collyer out there. Looked so calm and composed. Easy to see why he had the captain’s armband in the second half. Big future,” one fan wrote.

Another posted: “Toby Colyer captain… Ten Hag surely rates him very high.”

“Without a doubt, the best outfield player today. He’s one for the future. Ten Hag is incredible at recognising talent,” a third concluded.

Collyer joined the club from Brighton in the summer of 2021 and has since led the Under-21s side as captain. He is expected to travel with the first team on the tour of the United States.

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