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The Old Town on Thursday as Manchester United secured all three points with a 2-1 win against Rangers in their Europa League group stage encounter, thanks to another winner from Bruno Fernandes. Late drama ensued at Trafford.
All three goals came in the second half, with the hosts taking the lead after former United loanee Jack Butland’s howler in the Rangers goal.
As the match appeared to be meandering towards the end, Cyriel Dessers equalized in the 88th minute, sending the away fans into delirium.
However, the joy was short-lived as the skipper silenced the Rangers supporters and popped out to score from half-volley in the two minutes of extra time.
Collier was tidy to the ball
Ruben Amorim is not happy with the number of chances missed, but will be pleased with the display of academy graduate Toby Collier, who earned his first start for the team in the European competition.
The 21-year-old was nervous at first as his misplaced pass almost led to the visitors’ first big chance, but he gradually grew into his game and as time went on he was more comfortable on the ball. I was pretty confident.
The former England U17 international had 57 touches and finished the game with a passing accuracy of 94%, managing to find his teammates on 48 of his 51 passes.
The former Brighton starlet completed both his dribbles and lost possession of the ball only four times (all stats via All Stats).
He kept things simple and choppy, what the head coach wanted from his defensive midfielder. And Collier didn’t own his usual aggressive self.
More opportunities in the pipeline
The Worthing-born star lost one ground duel in 73 minutes and also won one free kick after being fouled by a Rangers player. The midfielder also completed two interceptions.
It’s clear that Amorim likes youngsters and Collyer featured in each of the club’s last four games after impressing with a cameo off the bench against Arsenal in the FA Cup.
The head coach refrained from using Casemiro, opting to use an academy graduate instead. Also, the club made a U-turn and canceled the loan exit because the coach wants him here.
And it is unlikely that both the Brazilian and Christian Eriksen will appear at the club for much longer, so more chances are expected.
Collyer’s energy, drive, and determination make him a useful bench option to replace either Manuel Ugarte or Kobbie Mainoo if needed.
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