Manchester United have suffered another frustrating injury setback at a crucial stage of the season.
The Red Devils defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 at Old Trafford in the Premier League today.
Caretaker head coach Michael Carrick made a notable change to the matchday squad, with teenage midfielder Tyler Fletcher replacing Shea Lacey.
It was a surprise to see Lacey absent from the squad, especially after he was also missing from the Under-21s squad yesterday.
According to the reliable insider Sully Talkz, Shea Lacey has picked up a minor calf injury this week.
Early scans have confirmed the issue is not serious, but the teenager is still expected to be sidelined for a few weeks.
United are determined not to rush Lacey back, particularly given his frustrating injury record over the past two years.
The setback comes just as Lacey was beginning to build momentum at senior level.
The exciting 18-year-old made his senior debut under former manager Ruben Amorim and went on to feature twice more, catching the eye with his electric cameos.
Lacey is a dynamic right-winger known for his ability to play line-breaking passes and beat defenders with sharp body movements.
He bagged a hat-trick in the 5-1 win over West Bromwich Albion U21s recently, making a claim for more minutes at the senior level.
Carrick will now be increasingly concerned, with Patrick Dorgu and Mason Mount already sidelined through injury.
United are suddenly light on natural wingers, with Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha the only senior options capable of taking on defenders.
Any further injuries in those areas could force Carrick into a major tactical rethink.
An injury to Lacey has proved to be a blessing in disguise for Tyler Fletcher, who made his debut today against Spurs.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com