Following a recent series of injury setbacks, Manchester United have decided to make their first major transfer in January ahead of the window reopening next month.
Manchester United have decided to bring back Toby Collier from his loan spell with West Bromwich Albion in the EFL Championship following an injury setback. The 21-year-old has had a difficult time in the second tier, making just 12 appearances for the Baggies and registering just one assist in just 253 minutes.
The Athletic confirmed that he was recently left out of West Brom’s squad due to a calf injury and has returned to Carrington for treatment. It’s a further blow for United, who have just been without midfield maestro Bruno Fernandes for some time after sustaining a hamstring injury in the defeat to Aston Villa.
Portugal star Fernandes could be sidelined for about a month, but head coach Ruben Amorim is reluctant to give a specific time frame for his recovery. “They’re not suited for this game. They’re recovering,” he said in the pre-match press conference.
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“I don’t think it will take that long. Koby will be back sooner than Bruno. I don’t want to say (how long). Of course we have ideas, but we’ll see.”
Amorim’s team is currently stretched thin on the ground. This is due to injuries and suspensions, with three players absent on international duty for the African Cup of Nations, contributing to the current lack of talent.
Amad, Brian Mbeumo and Nousair Mazraoui are on international duty in Morocco.
The under-the-radar Koby Mainoo was expected to start in United’s defeat at Villa Park, but was ruled out through injury, with Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt also continuing to recover from injury.
Mainu’s future at Old Trafford is uncertain, with him slipping down the pecking order amid rumors hinting he could leave the club before the January deadline.
According to reports, Collier could remain at the club once he recovers from injury and could be ready to compete in midfield should Mainou leave.
The report also suggests that United will not return Collier to the Hawthorns once he is fit, although several Championship clubs are reportedly interested in a loan deal if Amorim is given the green light.
The midfielder is expected to be sidelined for around eight weeks due to his latest injury.
Collier was handed his debut by former United manager Erik ten Hag before being given the chance to shine in the FA Cup and Europa League by Amorim.
The former Brighton star has made 13 appearances for the Reds so far, but Amorim is reported to be willing to give him the chance to compete for a place in the squad.
United return to action later this evening when they take on Newcastle United at Old Trafford as they aim to close the gap on Champions League qualification.
