Shea Lacey was one of the youngsters involved in first team training this week ahead of Manchester United's pre-season opener
Shea Lacey dribbling with the ball during a Manchester United under-18s match
Shea Lacey dribbling with the ball during a Manchester United under-18s match
(Image: Manchester United via Getty Images)
Shea Lacey has long been talked about as a bright prospect at Manchester United - and this summer might prove a pivotal period in the teenager's development.
Lacey was one of a clutch of youngsters who were alongside the senior group as United returned to pre-season training this week.
The talented teen had an injury-hit campaign last term and was carefully managed as a result. His minutes at academy level were therefore limited but he did travel on the post-season tour to Asia and was handed a senior appearance off the bench in the defeat to ASEAN All-Stars.
That offered a glimpse of what the 18-year-old can offer with his ability on the ball evident. Lacey signed a professional deal at the first opportunity last year and Old Trafford insiders believe he has the potential to break into the first team.
The playmaker featured for United's Under-18s aged just 14 and recent appearances have come on the right flank, although he is capable of playing in a variety of positions while the Reds academy coaches like to challenge youngsters in different roles.
His long-term future could be as an attacking midfielder, while comparisons have been made with Manchester City and England star Phil Foden.
He has a long way to go before being mentioned in similar dispatches to the Etihad ace but Lacey has evidently impressed Amorim and he could be afforded an opportunity against Leeds United in the opening pre-season friendly next weekend.
The United boss has shown he is prepared to offer opportunities to youngsters and Lacey's involvement in senior training teases the prospect of the boyhood Red being utilised over the summer.
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