Lisandro Martinez hails 'big example' who was unsung hero of Manchester United win vs Fulham
Man Utd scored late on to defeat Fulham 1-0 in the Premier League on Sunday night.
Lisandro Martinez hailed Toby Collyer for his contribution to Manchester United’s 1-0 win over Fulham on Sunday night.
Martinez scored the only goal of the game as United won late at Craven Cottage for the third season in a row to extend their excellent recent run over Fulham. United would have had few complaints had they dropped points again after a low-quality performance in the Premier League but had substitute Collyer to thank as he ensured they held on for all three.
The 21-year-old impressed from the bench in West London and made a key contribution to proceedings when he read the game expertly and cleared a Joachim Andersen header off the goal line in the final minutes of the match.
It was one of the finest moments Collyer has had in his senior career so far and highlighted exactly why new head coach Ruben Amorim already has so much faith in the academy graduate. Speaking after the match, matchwinner Martinez piled the praise on the youngster for his equally important contribution to the result. "I am so happy because of this guy [Toby Collyer]. This guy is a big example for the young generation," he told TNT Sports. "He his working so hard everyday and he is so humble.
"I am happy with the way we won the game. It doesn't matter who scores - the most important is the three points. It means a lot. Not only to the fans, but for us because we have suffered a lot. It is a hard win, this club the pressure is hard, but we are here. We know how difficult it is. Even a game like today we have to win and be humble after winning."
Collyer was back on the bench after he had started against Rangers in midweek and he is looking to secure a regular first-team role under Amorim after his recent exposure. Asked about his performance and the praise from Martinez, he added: "Unbelievable, coming from a World Cup winner. I couldn't ask for anymore really. A tough environment and that makes you better as a player and your character. I am looking to improve everyday and help the team as much as I can."
When quizzed on his goalline clearance, he continued: "I remember clearing it and thinking, 'has that gone over? We did it as a team, together."