Manchester United manager Michael Carrick must make a bold selection call ahead of the upcoming Premier League clash.
Man United will face Fulham away from home in the Premier League on Sunday.
It has been a very poor start to the 2026-27 season for United and Carrick must find a way to turn the tide.
They lost to Manchester City last weekend and crashed out of the Carabao Cup after losing to Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday evening.
Securing three points has to be a priority for United.
We believe Carrick must make a surprise selection decision and name Shea Lacey in the starting XI.
Lacey deserves to start after superb Brighton display
There is certainly a need to keep the hype surrounding Lacey under control and avoid placing unrealistic expectations on his young shoulders.
United have seen before how quickly the hype around an academy prospect can turn into a burden, with Alejandro Garnacho providing the most recent reminder that young players need to be introduced to first-team football carefully.
However, Lacey has given Carrick a compelling reason to trust him again after producing a superb performance against the Seagulls.
The 19-year-old marked his first full senior start with a stunning goal just eight minutes into the contest.
After receiving a pass from Youri Tielemans, Lacey cut inside and used his lightning-quick feet to wrong-foot his marker before unleashing a powerful strike beyond the Brighton goalkeeper.
That was not the only moment that showcased his confidence and attacking ability.
Lacey later produced another brilliant piece of skill to beat Jaouen Hadjam and win a yellow card for the foul.
Carrick should reward that performance by handing the teenager another start on the right wing against Fulham. This could also allow the United head coach to use Bryan Mbeumo in the number nine position.
With Amad Diallo currently injured, Lacey has a clear opening to seize his opportunity and show why he is regarded as one of the most exciting academy prospects at Carrington.
Stats from Fotmob.com