Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Manchester United have been ramping up pre-season preparations this week at Carrington, which has resulted in two moments of real quality.
This weekend, Manchester United face Atletico Madrid in what is the first major test of the summer for Michael Carrick’s side, following United’s 5-0 win over Rosenborg, which will have built some momentum.
Over the course of this week, players have been arriving back. Amad returned early in the week, before Youri Tielemans and Senne Lammens were back on Thursday, four days earlier than mandated.
Training has also seen footage emerge in which Andrey Santos stole the show with a sensational strike in a mini-game, on the volley from the edge of the box, into the top corner, leaving Radek Vitek motionless.
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Manchester United Training Session
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Shea Lacey touch is just as pleasing as Andrey Santos goal
It was a cracking goal from Santos, the kind that would evoke limbs through Old Trafford if he can muster something similar up in a game during the season.
But as good as Santos’ goal was, Shea Lacey did something in the build-up which was equally as impressive.
United posted the goal in slow motion, and as the ball was popped up following a cross, Lacey flicked his leg up backwards, getting a delightful flick with his studs onto the ball, which guided it into the path of Santos for the goal.
Whether he meant it or not, it was quality, and Lacey will be telling his teammates that was exactly what he intended when he swung his leg back like that.
Two moments of magic that feel wasted on a training match, but it does prove both are sharp and building confidence ahead of the new season, in which both are going to play a big role, which is becoming increasingly clear about Lacey.
Shea Lacey walking off the pitch after Man Utd play Fulham
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Shea Lacey has played himself into Michael Carrick’s immediate plans
While Lacey is considered a first-team player, there was some talk that he may end up being loaned this coming season to aid his development.
But he has been sensational during pre-season, and after the Rosenborg game, Michael Carrick even admitted he has forced him to change his plans.
This probably means Lacey has shown Carrick that he is ready to be treated in line with the other first-team attackers, and we expect he will play a substantial role this coming campaign.
Either in the 10 to take the load off Bruno Fernandes or on the right wing, Lacey has shown he can contribute and be an option for United going forward.
This training moment is just the latest bit of class in a long line for Lacey.