Manchester United have made an important transfer decision ahead of the January window reopening after a spate of injuries left Ruben Amorim’s side short of options.
Manchester United have recalled Toby Collyer from his loan spell with EFL Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion following an injury blow.
The 21-year-old midfielder has endured a tough period in the second tier, featuring in 12 matches for the Baggies and registering just one assist across a modest 253 minutes of action.
The Athletic has reported he’s returned to Carrington for treatment on a calf problem that has recently ruled him out of the matchday squad for West Brom.
It represents another setback for United, who have just lost their midfield magician, Bruno Fernandes, for a spell out due to a hamstring injury which he picked up in the defeat to Aston Villa.
Portuguese star Fernandes could be out of action for around a month, with Ruben Amorim hesitant to put a firm timeframe on his recovery.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference for Newcastle, he said: “Not for this game. They are recovering. I don’t think that it is going to take a lot of time. Kobbie is going to return faster than Bruno. I don’t want to say [how long for Bruno]. I have an idea, of course, but let’s see.”
Amorim’s squad is presently stretched rather thin – with injuries, suspensions and players away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations all adding to the personnel crisis.
Amad, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui are currently representing their respective countries in Morocco, while Casemiro has served a ban for five yellow cards.
Kobbie Mainoo was ready to start for United in their defeat at Villa Park, but an injury put him on the side-lines, while Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt are still recovering from their own setbacks.
Mainoo’s future at Old Trafford is up in the air as he has fallen down the pecking order, with rumours hinting at a possible departure from the club in January.
Reports suggest Collyer will stay at the club once he recovers from his injury, offering competition in midfield if Mainoo leaves in January.
The report also indicates that United won’t send Collyer back to the Hawthorns when fit again, although several Championship clubs are reportedly keen on a loan deal if Amorim gives the green light.
The midfielder is expected to be sidelined for around eight weeks due to his recent injury setback.
Collyer was given his debut by former United boss Erik ten Hag, before Amorim gave him the opportunity to shine in the FA Cup and then the Europa League.
The former Brighton star has made 13 appearances for the Reds so far, while reports suggest that Amorim is ready and willing to give him the chance to fight for his place in the team.
United will be back in action later this evening when they take on Newcastle United at Old Trafford, aiming to close the gap to this season’s Champions League spots.