Manchester United earned a 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League earlier today.
Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes ensured the Red Devils tightened their grip on fourth place and kept their momentum rolling.
It was a deeply special afternoon at Old Trafford, as supporters paid tribute to mark the anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster.
Fernandes sealed the win in the 81st minute, which then allowed head coach Michael Carrick to hand a memorable first-team debut to teenage midfielder Tyler Fletcher.
Carrick admitted after the match that he felt immense pride in opening the first-team door for the 18-year-old.
He said after the game (via ManUtd.com): “It was a proud moment for me, to be able to give Tyler his next step really in his career. I wanted to get him out on the pitch today, just to sample it and feel it. He came on and did really well.
It was especially powerful to hear the former England international reflect on the Munich anniversary and explain why he felt it was the perfect occasion to honour the club’s traditions by trusting an academy graduate.
The traditions of this great club have always been built around giving academy players the chance to shine on the biggest stage.
Once again, Carrick showed that he truly embodies those values and understands exactly what Manchester United stands for.
He added: “It’s what this club is and what a week to do it, with the anniversary of Munich and the Busby Babes and everything this club is based on. So it’s special and I certainly don’t take that for granted. It was great to give Tyler his chance.”
Tyler and Jack Fletcher are brothers and the sons of former United midfielder Darren Fletcher.
Jack has already made his senior debut earlier this season, and Tyler has now proudly followed in his footsteps.
Like all young players, the Fletcher brothers are still a work in progress.
However, they possess raw talent, hunger and technical quality that could be moulded into top-level careers with the right guidance and coaching.
Despite being on the pitch for just two minutes, Tyler completed all seven of his passes.
That composure comes as no surprise, given his consistently impressive performances at youth level.
It will be a hugely proud day for Darren Fletcher and his family, and one that could serve as powerful motivation for both of his sons.
Stats from FotMob.com