Manchester United have plenty to digest after a dramatic week at Old Trafford. Michael Carrick is facing fresh scrutiny after the collapse against Brighton, while the manager has addressed both the defeat and the future of JJ Gabriel. Elsewhere, Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford have received England call-ups, and the club’s predicted XI for Fulham is beginning to take shape.
United academy receives England boost
Manchester United have five academy players in England’s latest Under-20 squad. As reported in our full England Under-20 story, Harry Amass, Ayden Heaven, Jack Fletcher, Jim Thwaites and Shea Lacey have all been selected for fixtures against Italy, France and Germany.
Amass, Fletcher and Thwaites are yet to make their England Under-20 debuts, while Heaven and Lacey have already represented the side at this level.
Carrick reacts to Brighton collapse
Manchester United threw away a 2-0 lead against Brighton to suffer a 3-2 Carabao Cup defeat. In our full Carrick reaction, Carrick admitted the result felt bad and said United had not enjoyed a great few weeks, but insisted the group can turn things around. Shea Lacey scored on his first senior start, while Carrick stressed the importance of looking after JJ Gabriel and other young players.
Brighton defeat increases pressure
Our full Brighton collapse story details the frustration inside Old Trafford after United surrendered their two-goal advantage. The defeat ended a 50-year run without a home loss after leading by two goals and left United with two wins from their opening six matches in all competitions. The report also highlights ten goals conceded in those six games.
Fulham predicted XI
United now travel to Fulham looking to respond, with our predicted lineup suggesting Senne Lammens will return in goal. Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez are expected at centre-back, while Diogo Dalot should keep his place. Luke Shaw remains a doubt, meaning Patrick Dorgu could start at left-back. Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans are expected in midfield, with Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko in attack.
Carrick involved in JJ Gabriel talks
Michael Carrick has confirmed he is personally involved in discussions over JJ Gabriel’s future. Our full JJ Gabriel story explains that the 15-year-old’s camp has served United with formal notice to cancel his registration. Carrick has refused to discuss the reasons behind the request, stressing that Gabriel’s wellbeing must come first. United remain hopeful of keeping him.
Saha issues Carrick warning
Louis Saha believes Manchester United’s problem is more about their system than their players. In our full Saha story, the former striker said Carrick needs to adapt and argued that United need better patterns of play. Saha warned that the current way of playing is dangerous for Carrick.
Mainoo and Rashford return to England squad
Thomas Tuchel has selected Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford for England’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures. As reported in our full England call-up story, Mainoo has continued to impress in midfield under Carrick, while Rashford has returned after his spell at Barcelona. England begin their schedule against Spain at Wembley on September 26.
Romano reveals fresh Gabriel update
Fabrizio Romano says United still want JJ Gabriel to remain at the club and will hold talks involving the teenager, his father Joe O’Cearuill and his representatives. Our full Romano story explains that United do not want to force Gabriel to stay. Romano also says Real Madrid and Barcelona are among the clubs involved if Gabriel eventually leaves.
Carragher warns Gabriel and parents
Jamie Carragher has questioned the situation surrounding Gabriel and warned about the influence of parents and entourages on young players. In our full Carragher story, he drew on his own experience and argued that such situations can sometimes prevent talented youngsters from fulfilling their potential. Gabriel’s future at United remains unresolved.
Redknapp criticises Zirkzee
Jamie Redknapp has criticised Joshua Zirkzee for his display against Brighton. Our full Zirkzee story reports that Redknapp felt Brighton looked better coached and had clearer patterns of play. He also questioned the impact of Bruno Fernandes and Mainoo after they were introduced, while describing Zirkzee’s performance as especially poor.
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Manchester United send five players to England Under-20s squad
Manchester United send five players to England Under-20s squad
Michael Carrick Defiant After Man Utd Carabao Cup Exit
Michael Carrick Defiant After Man Utd Carabao Cup Exit