Manchester United’s youngsters have provided the biggest reason for supporters to be cheerful amid a difficult season.
It’s not just Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, who have become regulars in the first team. There could be a lot more to follow.
There is another exciting group coming through at Carrington, with this year’s under-18s winning a treble, the league, the Premier League Cup, and then the national league play-off.
Such is the rich conveyor belt of talent in the academy, there is hope that next year’s cohort will be just as good, if not better.
Harry Amass has been one of the stars
Harry Amass has been one of the star players during Manchester United’s run, making an instant impact following his transfer from Watford a year ago.
Amass made an instant impact, contributing to the best defence in the under-18s Premier League North, with just 28 goals conceded in 24 games.
He has caught the eye going forward too, marauding forward from left-back, and was subsequently called into the under-21s.
Erik ten Hag called Amass into first team training, and then included him on the bench on several occasions at the end of the season.
Clearly the youngster has a very bright future, and now he is tipping another young player to follow in his footsteps.
Harry Amass tips Shea Lacey to follow
With the academy season easing up, it’s time for some to rest. Others are already wishing it was next season.
One of those is Shea Lacey, who missed several months of the season due to injury, only to return for the end of the season.
He posted on Instagram: “Looking forward to next season.”
The exciting young winger received several responses from his teammates, Amass included, who suggested 2024/25 would be his breakout year.
Lacey has already trained with the Manchester United first team, and featured for the under-18s when fit.
He has recently committed to signing a professional contract, and there are high hopes ahead for the England youth international.
While Amass will be targeting making an impression for United inpre-season, Lacey will hope to put himself in a position where he can do the same in 2025.