I watched Manchester United lose 3-1 to Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford in the Premier League – in what was another abysmal performance from Ruben Amorim’s side.
No United players painted themselves in glory against the Seagulls, but there were some individuals who did a little better than others.
Joshua Zirkzee looked bright in areas and Amad Diallo was his usual direct self. However, there was certainly more bad than good that shone through.
Andre Onana’s mistake was seriously poor, Noussair Mazroaui looked off it and Kobbie Mainoo had a bad game in red.
Ruben Amorim may need to switch up his starting XI, and one of the substitutes on the day could be in these plans.
Toby Collyer held his own in Brighton cameo
Manchester United love an academy product, and Toby Collyer is the latest to have emerged as a contender for a first-team squad role.
Collyer impressed against Southampton – but wasn’t given a shot in the starting XI against the Seagulls. He was, however, awarded with 30 minutes against Fabian Hürzeler’s side.
It was an extremely tough game to come into. Brighton’s ridiculously physical midfield, which included a stunning Carlos Baleba, dominated Manchester United’s from minute one.
Watching from the stands, Collyer – all things considered – did well. Aside from some misplaced passes, he battled well, as reflected in his stats.
Collyer stats vs Brighton
| Collyer stats vs Brighton | Value |
| Accurate passes | 18/19 (95%) |
| Duels won | 2 |
| Duels lost | 1 |
| Ground duels won | 1/2 (50%) |
| Aerial duels won | 1/1 (100%) |
| Was fouled | 0 |
| Tackles won | 1/1 (100%) |
| Defensive actions | 3 |
| Recoveries | 4 |
Kobbie Mainoo should be dropped for Collyer
Mainoo is an absolute superstar for Manchester United, but it could be time to try a Manuel Ugarte and Collyer midfield partnership from the get-go.
The Red Devils are struggling in midfield, and a more defensive-minded midfield may be the way forward for a little more stability in the United side.
Mainoo has not found the level he was at last season, which granted, is difficult to do. It’s easy to forget he’s just a kid, given his undeniable abilities.
A few games benched may do him good, whilst also allowing another youngster to blossom in Collyer. Amorim faces Rangers this Thursday in the Europa League – an ideal opportunity to give Toby a well deserved start.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
