Toby Collyer sends Manchester United’s “one of the best ever” a strong message after Arsenal loss

Toby Collyer is one player who has very much impressed Manchester United fans following his great performances in pre-season.

With Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes unavailable for pre-season due to their international commitments during the 2024 European Championships, other Manchester United players have been allowed to flourish.

Mason Mount and Toby Collyer‘s midfield performances against Rosenborg, Rangers, and Arsenal have left a trail of plaudits, with both players aiming to establish themselves within the first team this season.

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While Mount is looking to reset after an injury-riddled season last campaign, Collyer is looking to break through from the U21s into the first team, and Erik ten Hag has been impressed.

Speaking following his positive display against Arsenal, Collyer recognised how Casemiro had helped guide his game during pre-season and explained how he is enjoying learning from “one of the best.”

“So valuable, he’s one of the best ever in that position, so it’s great for someone like myself to learn off him,” Collyer told club media when asked how valuable it is to play next to Casemiro.

“Even just to watch him in training and have him next to me always talking to me and helping me out as well as the other lads as well, he’s a real leader in the team.”

However, Collyer also issued a warning to Casemiro, explaining that he wants to be able to play in the first team. With Fernandes and Mainoo certain starters, the final place is up fo grabs between the pair.

When asked how valuable he has found his time with the first team while on the pre-season tour so far, he replied, “Really, really valuable. That’s what everyone wants to do.

“Everyone wants to be able to play in the first team, so I think getting experience like this, in a stadium like this as well, is the top level, and, obviously, the opposition as well today, so taking everything step by step, and hopefully get many more opportunities to show what I can do.”

Ten Hag himself has been quick to recognise Collyer’s ability. “You know me, I always want to make pathways for young players, but they have to earn it,” said the Dutchman following the win over Rangers.

“He’s now earned an opportunity. Today, he was in the starting XI; that’s something, and we will see how we can progress. We saw last year with [Alejandro] Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo what can happen, so the pathway is also open for other players and Toby is there in fourth.”

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