By Michael Davey
Former Liverpool and Nottingham Forest striker Stan Collymore believes Manchester United are building nicely ahead of the new season.
In particular, he thinks manager Michael Carrick’s measured approach in the transfer market is the right strategy after years of questionable signings by the Red Devils.
During an exclusive interview with 10bet, Collymore also defended Marcus Rashford against his critics after the forward returned to Old Trafford following a loan spell at Barcelona.
Carrick focusing on squad development
Asked if he thinks the Man United hierarchy have failed to support Carrick in the transfer market this summer, Collymore said: “Not at all.
“Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the leadership team recognise that United have spent massive amounts in previous windows without a coherent strategy.
“Carrick proved after taking over that he could unlock high performance from the existing squad.
“In post-season discussions, Carrick didn’t demand a squad overhaul – he inherited a strong core, welcomed back returning players like Marcus Rashford and reintegrated experienced figures like Harry Maguire.
“United need stability, a clear playing model and a steady ‘two-in, two-out’ transfer cadence rather than constant disruption.”
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Rashford back in the mix
On the return of Rashford to Manchester, Collymore added: “Young players like Rashford or Alejandro Garnacho today carry the weight of being framed as the next George Best, Wayne Rooney or Cristiano Ronaldo.
“Rashford was never that profile of generational talent – he didn’t burst through with the sheer natural output of someone like Lee Sharpe or George Best.
“Barring one or two standout goalscoring campaigns, his output across seven or eight seasons has sat at a steady, good level rather than elite, world-class territory.
“Evaluating him as a consistent six- or seven-out-of-10 professional is far more accurate.
“Off the pitch, he is a mature, well-rounded individual who dedicated significant energy to social and political causes, proving football isn’t his sole identity.
“On the pitch, across 10 matches, he typically delivers two outstanding displays, five solid performances and two where he is relatively quiet.
“That is a completely respectable Premier League career.
“He went to Barcelona and contributed to a La Liga–winning side in a new football culture – any professional would take that track record.
“Expecting him to be the next Rooney simply misjudged his personality type and skill set.”
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