Manchester United loanee Ethan Wheatley finally showed why he was so highly rated at the academy level.
Wheatley is currently on a season-long loan at Northampton Town and made his sixth appearance yesterday against Exeter City in League One.
After struggling to find rhythm in his first five outings, Wheatley announced himself in style by scoring the first senior goal of his career.
He needed less than a minute to make his mark, hammering home a thunderous strike to give Northampton a dream start.
Nesta Guinness-Walker spotted Wheatley’s clever run down the left channel and picked him out with a lofted pass.
Wheatley showed superb control at the byline before rifling a right-footed rocket from a tight angle into the top corner.
His explosive shot was too powerful for Exeter City’s goalkeeper to even attempt a save.
Max Dyche doubled Northampton’s lead to ensure their maiden victory of the 2025/26 season.
Wheatley has endured a rocky start to his second loan spell but this fantastic goal will certainly boost his confidence.
He looked far more involved in the game against Exeter, completing 12 accurate passes and registering six touches inside the opposition box before being subbed off in the 66th minute.
He tested the goalkeeper again with another effort, though this time his shot was too tame to trouble.
The 19-year-old is still getting used to the physical demands of senior football as he won only two of his eight duels.
After a frustrating loan stint at Walsall, it is important for the forward to make this opportunity count.
There is no doubt that he is a superb talent and could have a bright future.
The Red Devils also consider him as a gem, with the youngster already making four appearances for the United first team.
He has won the Young Player of the Year award for 2023/24 and became the 250th Academy graduate to play for the senior set-up after coming all the way through the ranks at Carrington.
If he can record an impressive goal tally and improve his raw skills, head coach Ruben Amorim may consider promoting him to the United first team next season.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & FotMob.com