Man Utd seal three transfers in 24 hours as INEOS finalise deadline plans | Football | Sport
Michael Carrick’s Manchester United squad is taking shape. (Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United have announced the exits of Joe Hugill, Rhys Bennett and Toby Collyer, just days before the winter transfer window closes. Bennett, 22, secures a permanent switch to Fleetwood Town following his loan spell at the League Two outfit last season. The defender remained at United over the summer before tragically losing his father, David, in October.
Speaking to MUTV shortly before Christmas, he described it as “the most difficult time ever” for his family. Bennett also discussed mental health and suicide prevention during the candid interview. The 2022 FA Youth Cup-winning skipper now reunites with Ethan Ennis, who joined Highbury on loan last summer.
Bennett told Fleetwood TV: “I’ve always been close with Ethan. He’s a top player and a top lad, so I’m looking forward to playing alongside him again.
“I spent 16 years there [at United], and they helped me every step of the way. I’m really thankful to everyone for helping me grow, on and off the pitch.”
Both Collyer and Hugill, who played alongside Bennett in the club’s academy teams, are also departing this month. The former heads to Championship side Hull City on loan, whilst Kilmarnock have secured Hugill’s signature on a permanent basis.
Following confirmation of his move to Scotland, Hugill took to social media to reflect on his United journey. He wrote: “Thank you to everyone (at Man United) for the past 6 years.
“The players, the staff, the fans and everyone connected to the club who have made me love every minute along the way. I will always be beyond grateful for my time here and the memories will live with me forever.”
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Toby Collyer is swapping West Brom for Hull. (Image: Getty Images)
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Collyer’s switch to Hull, meanwhile, has been in the pipeline for some time. Upon putting pen to paper, he commented: “It’s been a while coming. I know there was interest and a possibility in the summer, but now I’m really happy to have been able to make it happen in this window.
“The style of play the manager likes to bring to his players is really good for me – high energy, high output. I would say I’m an intelligent player and I always like to improve. Hard work is fundamental – otherwise, you won’t get to where you want to get to.
“The Championship is different to the Premier League – it’s hectic, but I like it. You face challenges every day in training and in matches, and it’s a great league to get better. My target was to get back out and play as many minutes as possible in a different environment and challenge myself.
“I’m looking forward to the atmosphere, seeing the fans and playing with my new teammates. I’ll always work hard for the badge and for the fans.”
