Collyer: Licha has been a massive help

Rewatching an interaction with Martinez as part of our new ‘FIVES’ interview format, Collyer listened to the Argentina international label him a “big example for the young generation.”

That praise came after an impressive performance off the bench by Collyer in January’s Premier League victory at Fulham.

It was in the middle of a positive spell for the midfielder, shortly after his 21st birthday, which included a first European start, against Rangers at Old Trafford, and an important contribution against Arsenal in the FA Cup.

“You can’t really ask for anything more than that,” Collyer said when listening back to Martinez’s words.

“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.”

While Martinez missed much of the 2024/25 campaign through injury, his insatiable appetite for the game has always been clear when he’s on the pitch. Since signing from Ajax in 2023, Licha’s passionate manner in which he plays football has often rubbed off onto others around him.

Asked whether Martinez’s love for Collyer might be because he sees similar traits in him, Toby said: “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.”

The midfielder enjoyed a strong first season in United’s senior set-up, making his debut in August’s Community Shield at Wembley before gradually earning the trust of both Erik ten Hag and then Ruben Amorim to play an important role.

Two injuries disrupted his season, however, and so Collyer spent time with Martinez during recovery, too.

“We saw each other every day in the physio room,” he said, “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.”

COLLYER’S FIVE QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS

What other sports did you do or play when you were younger?

I did tennis. I did a bit of running as well, and swimming as well.

Favourite off-pitch moment that football has given you?

I’d just say in general, being able to go to loads of different places. Not one specific moment, but I’ve been to so many different countries based off of football, so that. I wouldn’t have been able to visit so many of these places I’ve been if I hadn’t been playing football.

Favourite quote?

I think I’ve said it in an interview before. I think there was a quote up in the changing room when I was an Under-16. It said, ‘Talent gets you to 16, character gets you to the first team’. When I think of quotes, I always think of that one.

Favourite part of Old Trafford?

The fans. Matchday. The fans. You can really feed off it in the game, when you walk out or if you come out. Even just in the warm-up. It gets you going. It properly gets you going. So I’d say the fans.

Favourite moment on a normal matchday?

Kick-off. You get there quite early, about three-and-a-half hours before the game, have your food, meetings, just waiting for the game. So kick-off, when you have that initial buzz from the stands.