Manchester United have been light in the striker department for a long time, and have been far too laid back in addressing the problem.
Rasmus Hojlund needs help, and relying on Anthony Martial was a foolish decision. He has not played since December.
For the last two matches, manager Erik ten Hag has turned to prolific youth team striker Ethan Wheatley, who has been on the bench, amid an increasingly worsening injury crisis.
Wheatley did not come off the bench, but he is expected to be back on it tonight as Manchester United take on Sheffield United in the Premier League, where he will hope to become the club’s 250th academy debutant, and fifth under the current manager.
Ethan Wheatley states his case
Erik ten Hag permitted Ethan Wheatley to step back down to the under-18s side for Tuesday night’s Premier League Cup final against City.
Wheatley had scored seven goals in five games on the way to the final, and along with Harry Amass and Louis Jackson, he was permitted to play 45 minutes.
These half-time substitutions were a clear signal they will be in the squad against the Blades, likely on the bench.
Wheatley made the most of his 45 minutes, netting twice from open play including one highly impressive half-volley from a difficult angle to open the scoring.
In all competitions Wheatley has scored 20 goals and provided five assists, with nine goals in six games in the Premier League Cup.
Stepping up against City in the final was another test passed, showing he has the right temperament for a big occasion, and he is clearly full of confidence right now.
Manchester United fans want Wheatley to get chance
Manchester United fans were impressed by Ethan Wheatley continuing to make a name for himself, and when it comes to the first team, why not?
Rasmus Hojlund has not scored since returning from injury in March, and it was similar circumstances which saw Marcus Rashford make a name for himself in 2016.
“Wheatley to the First team as soon as possible,” one fan enthusiastically wrote on X.
“I just hope Man United have a clear plan for this Ethan Wheatley boy development,” another added.
Another fan wrote: “Love Hojlund but Wheatley deserves a chance now. Most our academy deserve to play for their incredible season.”
A fourth added: “Play these in the first team. They deserve the opportunity! Wheatley especially.”
Another fan commented: “Rise, Ethan Wheatley. It may be your turn in the PL, son.”
One fan made an impressive comparison, commenting: “Hojlund now have something to worry about. Wheatley is another Van Nistelrooy.”
While another added: “Give Wheatley mins tomorrow in the second half at this point. We need a a striker to rotate with Hojlund.”