“Whatever happens…” – Scott McTominay’s playing time admission amid Newcastle interest in Man United midfielder

Scott McTominay started only 10 Premier League games last season for Manchester United but believes he needs to ‘keep working’ amid transfer interest from Newcastle United.

McTominay, 26, has appeared 209 times for United since making his debut for the club against Crystal Palace in 2017 in a squad that consisted of 11 under-21 players.

The Scotsman had been a regular starter under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer but has been phased out of the lineup since Erik ten Hag took charge. The Dutchman signed Casemiro last summer – the Brazilian played 51 times for The Reds last term, starting 43 of those games.

Despite reported interest in the midfielder from various clubs including Eddie Howe’s Newcastle, the United midfielder has stated his ‘love’ for the Old Trafford club and that he will give his all even if he is not starting games.

“When you’re on your holidays, you need to relax and take it easy, but I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. I’m someone who loves football and I love this club,” McTominay told club media.

“Whatever happens and however many minutes you play, I’m still going to train hard every single day and give my best for the team and always be there, contribute with some goals every now and again, maybe when you come on, but I feel like, for myself, it’s keep your head down and keep working.”

Latest reports from Craig Hope of the Daily Mail says that United will allow the midfielder to move on this summer, however. It was added that Newcastle are considering signing the 26-year-old but only have a £75 million budget; meaning that The Reds may have to lower an asking price currently in excess of £30 million.

Additionally, McTominay has praised the United boss despite Ten Hag giving him limited game-time since Casemiro broke into the side in October.

“Obviously, the transition in terms of his style is very, very different to some other coaches, but, as I say, that’s football,” added the Scotland international.

“He’s always having you thinking, and having you think about new ideas and stuff like that.

“It’s good, that’s the best way to be with football: open-minded and going into every game, if he asks you to do something, you do it to the best of your abilities and you try to learn it as best as you can. I think, for me, it’s great. I love it.”