Manchester United midfielder Toby Collyer is spending the season on loan at West Bromwich Albion, but his spell has been anything but smooth.
Persistent injuries have derailed his progress, and a fresh setback has now amplified the concerns within the United hierarchy.
Manchester Evening News have revealed that Collyer has returned to Carrington to be assessed after suffering ‘quite a big injury‘.
The Hawthorns outfit remain cautiously optimistic that he will feature again later this season, though he is expected to spend the next few weeks recovering in Manchester.
The 21-year-old has managed just three starts across 12 Championship matches, logging only 253 minutes of action so far.
His most recent start lasted a mere ten minutes before he collapsed to the turf, visibly frustrated as a muscle injury forced him off.
Collyer made his senior debut for United in 2023 under former manager Erik ten Hag.
He has played 13 times for the Red Devils and is highly rated at the club.
He was even ahead of Casemiro in the midfield pecking order when Ruben Amorim took charge.
With United missing European football this season, the hierarchy believed a loan would accelerate his development by giving him regular minutes.
His deal contains no option to buy, highlighting the club’s long-term faith in the midfielder.
Casemiro is in the final year of his contract at United.
Saudi Arabia could make another attempt to sign Bruno Fernandes next summer.
Kobbie Mainoo also looks to be on his way out after poor treatment under Amorim.
The 20-year-old has played for only 171 minutes in the Premier League this campaign.
Collyer may now have a genuine opening to secure a permanent spot in the senior squad next season.
For that to happen, he must recover swiftly and make a strong statement during the second half of his West Brom loan.
Stats from Fotmob.com