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Manchester United succumbed to a dismal 0-3 defeat at the hands of arch-rivals Liverpool on Sunday with midfield superstar Casemiro guilty of multiple mistakes in the first half.
The Brazilian was a major liability last season but Erik ten Hag chose to keep faith in him despite INEOS’ attempts at moving him on.
Currently, Galatasaray remain interested and Saudi clubs are circling but an imminent exit is not expected with the Brazilian keen to prove his worth.
But the game against Arne Slot’s side was another reminder that the former Real Madrid superstar cannot be relied upon to start in the biggest games.
Casemiro cannot be the answer
Manuel Ugarte has been brought in as a long-term replacement but the Dutch manager has hinted that the Uruguayan might take time to adapt to his new surroundings.
That means someone needs to step up and as seen from Ten Hag’s half-time substitution against the Merseysiders, Toby Collyer could be about to become a first team regular moving forward.
With Christian Eriksen no longer able to handle the Premier League’s unforgiving intensity and following Scott McTominay’s departure, the academy graduate could be the one to shine this campaign.
As per Givemesport, the Red Devils coaching staff feel the 20-year-old is ready to follow in the footsteps of Kobbie Mainoo, who made his breakthrough last season.
The former Ajax coach has been left impressed with the England U17 international’s attitude and work rate since pre-season and is ready to increase his gametime amid Casemiro’s struggles.
EtH ready to place his trust in Collyer
“Manchester United are confident that Toby Collyer is capable of following in the footsteps of Old Trafford favourite Kobbie Mainoo after building on an eye-catching pre-season by being rewarded with his first Premier League appearance last weekend, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.
“GMS sources have been informed that Collyer impressed ten Hag and members of his backroom staff with the way he performed and conducted himself during Manchester United’s pre-season tour of the United States, and plans have been put in place to lean on him more often following McTominay’s exit and Casemiro’s struggles for form.”
Collyer will be hoping for more chances moving forward and a more functional team beside him so that he can avoid backlash should the team struggle.
The midfield has been a particular concern since last season in Ten Hag’s tactical shape and that needs to improve. Hopefully, Collyer and Ugarte can help in this regard.
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