Queens Park Rangers manager Neil Critchley admits Manchester United could recall Ethan Laird from his loan deal next month.
Laird joined the west London outfit on a season-long loan deal at the start of the season, when they were managed by Michael Beale.
He has since left to join Rangers, where he coached during Steven Gerrard’s time as manager, and has been replaced by Critchley.
Speaking to West London Sport, Critchley said that United could recall Laird when the transfer window opens but hopes they won’t.
Critchley on Laird
He said: “In any 12-month loan there is a natural break around mid-season and that applies to all players.
“But Ethan has having a fantastic season here and playing every single week and I am sure Manchester United will be happy with Ethan and the way he’s been playing and his development.
“My aim is to carry that on. I see myself as someone who can coach players to improve in the team they are playing in.
“Ethan is someone I have been aware for many years coming through at United and I tried to sign him previously at Blackpool, which didn’t happen, so I am pleased that he is here and hopefully that is for the rest of the season.”
United sent Laird out to Swansea for the first half of last season before they meddled, cutting short his deal to send him to Bournemouth.
That did not work out as he hardly played despite being part of a squad which got promoted to the Premier League under Scott Parker.
So it might be wise for United to leave Laird where he is, considering he is playing regularly in a team challenging for the play-offs.
But United might decide the change of manager is enough reason to pull him away from Loftus Road as they consider the development of their young loanees at the mid-season stage.
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