Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Shea Lacey is braced for a big opportunity at Manchester United in the Carabao Cup.
As the breakout star in pre-season at Manchester United, Shea Lacey has been patiently waiting for his first start of the regular campaign.
Lacey came off the bench to make his Champions League debut last week against Sabah. The teenager got 15 minutes towards the end of the game, along with Harry Amass. Now with a little rotation anticipated for the Carabao Cup clash with Brighton, Lacey is excited for a possible starting opportunity.
Ahead of the game, Lacey sent a timely message on social media, picturing himself at Old Trafford with a ‘heart emoji’ as the caption.
It was the perfect riposte, a show of commitment from a talented youth player, after a shocking day at Manchester United.
Wonderkid JJ Gabriel refused the chance to train ahead of a possible debut. His advisors have decided that they want him to pursue a move elsewhere. Manchester United are trying to rectify the situation, but it looks bleak for the club.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are being linked with a move – and while all this is going on, Shea Lacey’s message of commitment is perfectly timed, and guarantees him a roaring reception at Old Trafford against Brighton. This is the commitment United want from a young player, one who has been patiently waiting for his opportunity – despite being tipped for superstardom for the past four years.
Man United Predicted XI
Man United Predicted XI
Lacey proved himself by upstaging Gabriel
Shea Lacey upstaged JJ Gabriel by making his Champions League debut last week, while the latter was playing in the UEFA Youth League. Gabriel’s advisors felt he should have been playing against Sabah.
But there is no disputing Lacey is ahead of Gabriel in the pecking order. That was made clear with his pre-season minutes, where he was a regular in the team.
But more recently, Gabriel was benched at under-21 level against Leicester for Lacey to drop down and get some game time. The winger made an immediate impact by scoring two goals. Gabriel netted once from the bench – but the day belonged to Lacey.
He is judged as more first-team ready, and will get the nod against Brighton. Gabriel will be a spectator.