Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Manchester United have been heavily represented in the England U20 squad named for the upcoming international break, with five players included.
With Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford in the senior team, Manchester United’s next representation comes for the England U20 squad, with five named from Carrington.
Ayden Heaven
Harry Amass
Jack Fletcher
Jim Thwaites
Shea Lacey
These are five of the absolute best talents within the United ranks, with all five on the cusp of first-team football this season. Arguably, it is surprising to see a few in the U20 squad for different reasons.
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Shea Lacey and Jim Thwaites are surprisingly in the England U20 squad
While it will be an honour for all five, U20 football for Shea Lacey feels a little bit insulting. Lacey scored for United this week and has been in and around the senior side all season. He will have visions of potentially being in the England first-team set-up at some point this season.
Last season, Lacey was promoted for senior training with England while in a U20 camp, and if he can continue to build momentum for United, then he will hope for similar experiences.
It shows how far Lacey has come that England U20 is now seen as a bit of a step down. He has managed to put his injury issues behind him, and now there is no telling just how good he can be.
Meanwhile, on the flip side for Jim Thwaites, this call-up will be massive for his development and confidence.
Thwaites is uncapped at any level for England, but now at 18, he has been handed a call-up playing a year up from his age. Clearly, there has been recognition of his ability and how unique a profile he is in English football.
Michael Carrick rates Thwaites so highly, and now that has clearly spread to international level. Thwaites has the ability to be one of the best midfielders in England, and it won’t be long until he is playing competitive football for United.
For Ayden Heaven, Harry Amass, and Jack Fletcher, this will also be an exciting call-up and a chance to fire themselves into a much better position for club and international football going forward.