Manchester United put their faith in teams when they send players on loan, and are used to the risk by now.
You need only look at Maxi Oyedele’s loan at Forest Green Rovers last season to see how the best laid plans can quickly fall apart.
Oyedele was hailed by manager Troy Deeney as a ‘wonderful talent’. He was fired 24 hours later, and Oyedele’s spell at the club fell apart, sent back to United early.
Now a full Poland international after signing with Legia Warsaw, Oyedele’s experience is a cautionary tale.
Joe Hugill latest blow
One player who needed fortune on his side on his second loan spell of the season was Manchester United youngster Joe Hugill.
Hugill joined Carlisle United in January after his loan spell at Wigan was cancelled amid injuries and the Latics making other plans.
Carlisle manager Mike Williamson praised Hugill’s ‘pace and power’ after clinching his signing, delighted to bring him on board.
Now, a fortnight on, Mike Williamson has been sacked by Carlisle. The club issued a statement confirming he has been relieved from duties.
Carlisle are yet to replace Williamson, but it leaves Hugill having to start again, having to impress a manager who did not choose to sign him.
It’s a tough situation for any player, and not ideal for the development of a youngster. Hugill needs to roll with it and make the best of the situation.
How Joe Hugill is faring to date
It should have been a positive week for Joe Hugill, who scored his first goal of his loan spell.
Hugill has played four games to date since the loan move, playing 90 minutes in all of them, showing how importantly he was regarded by Williamson.
He scored his first goal, a consolation in a 5-1 loss, with Carlisle rock bottom of the league and staring at relegation.
A new manager could help Hugill and the team – but if it ends up with him playing less frequently, it will not be what Manchester United wanted.
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