Manchester United midfielder Toby Collyer has heaped praise on Lisandro Martinez, crediting the defender for easing his breakthrough into the first team.
Despite United’s turbulent 2024/25 campaign, which ended with a 15th-place finish in the Premier League, one bright spot was Collyer’s rise. The Carrington academy graduate firmly established himself as a member of the senior squad.
He made his debut in the Community Shield defeat to Manchester City in August and went on to earn the trust of both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim.
Whenever called upon, Collyer delivered solid performances and proved to be a reliable option. But injuries limited the 21-year-old to just 13 appearances across all competitions.
Collyer’s time on the sidelines would have seen him interact a lot with Martinez, who sustained a season-ending ACL injury in February.
Speaking to club media, Collyer revealed Martinez’s role in his transition to the senior set-up.
“That’s coming from a World Cup winner! And Licha is another name that’s massively helped me, in training every day, around the building, to express myself, giving me little tips on the pitch and helping me through games.”
“He’s another one that’s really helped me.”
Asked whether Martinez is fond of him because there are similarities between the two, Collyer answered, “That’s what I’d hope, because he’s got a great attitude, he strives for everything, so I’d hope he sees that in me as well.”
Collyer added, “We saw each other every day in the physio room and even when we’re working in the gym, you have little moments where you can chat for a bit.”
“It’s nice to have someone like him to get through it with.”
Meanwhile, Collyer highlighted the fans as his favourite part of Old Trafford. He lauded the supporters for always creating an electric atmosphere, which he and his teammates feed on during games.
Feature image Alex Pantling via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
