Ruben Amorim's Man United first-team addition given the green light after transfer decision

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Manchester United may have confirmed a third January addition to their first-team squad alongside the arrival of Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu. The defensive duo were paraded around Old Trafford this past weekend at half time of the defeat to Crystal Palace having joined from Arsenal and Lecce, respectively.

Ruben Amorim could do with both making an immediate impact after his side suffered a fifth league defeat on home soil since his arrival. In an attempt to change fortunes, Amorim has tried a number of different tactical set-ups which has included playing Bruno Fernandes in a deeper role and Amad at wing-back.

The latest attempt saw Kobbie Mainoo deployed as part of the front three with the 19-year-old scoring against FCSB in the Europa League in his new role. Amorim repeated that decision against Palace, but with a less positive result as a Jean-Phillipe Mateta brace saw the Eagles head back south with all three points.

If Amorim now considers Mainoo an attacking option, it makes sense why loan exits for Antony and Marcus Rashford were sanctioned. It does however, leave a big hole in midfield regardless of Fernandes being able to play in that position - often alongside Manuel Ugarte.

The 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in early January saw Amorim play Christian Eriksen and Casemiro as a midfield pivot but the latter has played just 18 minutes since then. When looking to make changes in the engine room, the United head coach has instead called on rising star Toby Collyer.

The 21-year-old has seen his minutes increase in recent weeks having impressed in cameos off the bench against Southampton and Arsenal in the FA Cup. Following that, Collyer's goal line clearance ensured United secured all three points against Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Having also featured briefly under Erik ten Hag, it is no surprise Collyer is now listed as part of United's first-team squad on their website. Because of how easily he has adapted to Premier League football, it is easy to forget his competitive debut only arrived against Manchester City in the Community Shield at the start of the season.

He will doubtless be a key part of Amorim's squad for the remainder of the season and beyond with United having decided to keep him at the club in January. For Mainoo to continue being utilised further forward, Collyer's presence could prove pivotal.

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