- Birthdate: 27 Apr 1995
- Birthplace: Ballyclare, Northern Ireland
- Position: Defender
- Joined United: 01 Jul 2011
- Joined From: United Academy
- United Debut: 27 Sep 2014 v West Ham (H)
Northern Ireland international who has adapted superbly to playing in the centre of defence after initially arriving from Ballyclare Colts as an attacking midfielder.
The talented prospect was thrust into the spotlight when handed a Barclays Premier League debut against West Ham in September 2014 and impressed in a 2-1 victory, making one vital headed interception deep inside his own box.
McNair had been an unused substitute during the defeat to Milton Keynes Dons in the Capital One Cup a month earlier and edged ahead of Under-21 central defensive partner Tom Thorpe for the right to play alongside Marcos Rojo in the Hammers clash, keeping his place for the victory over Everton by the same scoreline.
The Ulsterman would go on to make a further 12 appearances in his maiden campaign with first team, including a highly impressive display in the 2-1 away win at the Emirates and signed a new long-term deal with the club.
Comfortable in possession, adaptable and versatile, Academy coach Paul McGuinness felt in 2012 that his best position would probably not be pinpointed for another couple of years. As he was one of the youngest in his age group, he signed on as a third-year scholar in time for the 2013/2014 campaign and performed in the UEFA Youth League - even if he was unfortunate to be sent off in the opening game against Bayer Leverkusen for two bookable offences.
Warren Joyce introduced him to his Under-21 squad and described McNair as one of the most improved players in the squad as he nailed down a regular spot at the heart of the defence. It was his crucial last-gasp strike at Reading that ensured a top-four place in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League and progression to the knockout stages.
Joyce did also hint the Northern Irishman may revert to a midfield role in 2014/15 where his composure and ability to handle one-on-one situations can continue to flourish. However, he impressed Louis van Gaal as a centre-back and continued to make remarkably rapid strides to earn his stripes in the first team. As a ball-playing defender, he has a bright future and is also capable of performing well at right-back.
