Ethan Wheatley has found the net again, scoring for England U19s in their 2-0 victory over Wales.
The 19-year-old, currently on loan at Walsall from Manchester United, has endured a tough spell in League Two since his January move.
Despite being highly rated upon arrival, he has managed just three appearances, all in his first week at the club.
Since playing 57 minutes against Salford City on February 1, Wheatley has been absent from the pitch for Walsall, only making the bench once in the past month.
It has been a frustrating time for the young forward, whose lack of game time has raised questions about his loan move.
However, United’s faith in Wheatley remains strong.
The club handed him a new contract earlier this year, reinforcing their belief in his potential despite his struggles in senior football.
Ethan Wheatley scores for England U19 vs Wales
With club opportunities limited, the international break provided a welcome change of scenery.
Wheatley was called up for England U19s’ Euro elite qualifying fixtures and made an immediate impact against Wales.
He scored in their opening match on Wednesday night.
His goal came in a game that also featured United academy teammate Gabriele Biancheri, who was representing Wales but failed to find the net.
This marked the end of an impressive run for Biancheri at international level, with both Wales and Italy previously considering him for higher age groups.
Englishman stuck in tricky position at Manchester United
For Wheatley, his current situation is a stark contrast to where he was earlier this season.
He had been in prolific form for United’s U21s, netting eight goals and briefly emerging as third-choice striker under Erik ten Hag.
However, Chido Obi’s rise under Ruben Amorim has changed the landscape, pushing Wheatley further down the pecking order.
This has left the teenager at a crossroads – too dominant for youth football yet struggling to make an impact in senior competition.
A crucial summer now awaits, with United likely to seek a better loan move.
Or, may even consider a sale with a buy-back clause to ensure Wheatley’s long-term development.
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