I took my time to watch the game yesterday and I must confess this boy is really good,You mean Ten Hag has this special talent and He is afraid to use Him last season”, Former Liverpool boss Jurgen klopp tells Erik Ten Hag to start using this youngster if He really wants to compete for league title next season

Manchester United are set to embark on the USA leg of their pre-season tour brimming with confidence after securing an away victory against Rangers in their second pre-season match. As the squad gradually regains its full complement of players, with more expected to rejoin the team for the tour, this period has been crucial for youngsters and fringe players to make their mark.

Players like Amad, who have been on the fringes of the first team but not regular starters, have performed admirably, creating a selection dilemma for the manager. Meanwhile, young talents like Toby Collyer have emerged, showcasing their potential to break into the first team.

Collyer, a defensive midfielder, has been highly regarded as the next standout star from United’s academy. His impressive performances have only reinforced these expectations. After logging two consecutive 45-minute stints against Rangers, Collyer is already addressing one of manager Erik ten Hag’s significant concerns from the previous season.

Collyer has been a revelation in his role, earning Ten Hag’s trust to the extent of being named captain for the second half against Rosenborg. This trust was further evident in the match against Rangers, where Collyer was included in the starting XI, comprising predominantly first-team players.

In both fixtures, Collyer demonstrated his prowess as a ball-winning midfielder. Positioned at the base of the midfield, he maintained a simple yet effective approach, sweeping up in front of the defense. Against Rosenborg, under immense pressure, Collyer remained disciplined, repeatedly intercepting the ball from opponents.

The dynamic shifted against Rangers, with United enjoying more possession. Collyer adapted seamlessly, completing all 18 of his passes and continuing his role as a defensive bulwark. His playing style has begun to remedy a significant issue from last season—United’s tendency to be overrun in midfield during transitions.

Last season, United’s midfield often vanished during crucial moments, allowing opponents to slice through with ease. While Casemiro’s defensive discipline was frequently questioned, the problem appeared structural, as even with Sofyan Amrabat or Christian Eriksen in the lineup, the situation remained dire.

Collyer embodies the type of player United desperately needs during these transitional phases. His positional discipline ensures he remains in the right spot, thwarting counter-attacks by simply staying true to his role. While he may need to contribute more offensively to secure a regular first-team position, his current approach prioritizes function over flair, addressing a critical gap in United’s midfield.

This season presents an ideal opportunity for Collyer to solidify his place in the squad. With United competing in the Europa League, the group stage matches will provide ample rotation chances for Ten Hag. Additionally, early-round fixtures in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup will offer further opportunities until January.

Ten Hag appears to recognize Collyer’s talent and potential. With Casemiro and Eriksen potentially nearing exits and significant interest in Scott McTominay, the pathway is clear for a midfield breakthrough. If United secures the signing of Manuel Ugarte, whose playing style mirrors Collyer’s, the young midfielder will have a valuable mentor to learn from.

Ultimately, it will be up to Collyer to seize these opportunities and establish himself in the first team. He can draw inspiration from Kobbie Mainoo, another youngster making strides in the squad.