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Toby Collyer could be the real deal, Erik ten Hag verdict would the biggest backing of his career
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has more than one decision to make over his midfield selection this weekend.
Two weeks rest was exactly what Casemiro needed after his poor showing against Liverpool. The Brazilian midfielder was taken off after 45 minutes at Old Trafford, with his mistake-prone performance ruthlessly dissected in the media.
Casemiro’s replacement was Toby Collyer, with the 20-year-old midfielder producing a spirited performance off the bench.
Collyer impressed during pre-season, and has also been catching the eye in training, while his former youth coach has compared him to Ngolo Kante.
Ten Hag selection dilemma
Erik ten Hag’s midfield selection for Manchester United against Southampton could go a number of ways.
With Casemiro rested, and eager to make amends, it makes some sense he will be selected in the starting XI. His last game against Southampton ended in a red card, so he also has a personal demon to get past.
New signing Manuel Ugarte is also in the mix. He has answered questions over his fitness by playing two matches for Uruguay during the international break.
But with United playing early on a Saturday, does it make sense to throw Ugarte straight in, after two intense World Cup qualifiers?
The third option to partner Kobbie Mainoo is young star Toby Collyer, who like Casemiro is totally rested and ready for action.
Collyer, United’s 251st youth graduate, may get some game time in the upcoming Carabao Cup clash with Barnsley. But it would be so much more meaningful if he was selected against Southampton.
The case for Collyer against Southampton
Leaving out Casemiro for Collyer against Southampton would be Erik ten Hag’s biggest vote of confidence in the youngster so far.
Casemiro is widely seen as a future-outgoing, present for now, but soon expected to leave Old Trafford.
Collyer is a player with a chance to be a big part of the future. At some point United need to make that change, and give him an opportunity.
Why not this weekend, against relegation-threatened Southampton? If he can come through and lead United to victory, it will prove he belongs at this level.
The youngster’s high-energy could be ideal to combat a hard-working Saints side who are desperate to get their season up and running.
Collyer’s only opportunities so far have come against City and Liverpool. Let’s see what he can do against Southampton, and give him a proper opportunity from the start.
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