The Man United youngster has represented England from U15 to U20 level and continues to impress with his performances for United
Shea Lacey during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD4 match between Manchester United and AS Roma at Old Trafford.
The Republic of Ireland are said to be taking an interest in Man United youngster Shea Lacey. (Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
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England face a battle for the international allegiance of Man United wonderkid Shea Lacey. The 19-year-old is an England youth international, but qualifies to play for the Republic of Ireland through his dad.
Lacey has impressed for United so far this season. The teenager has made six appearances, providing an assist for Matheus Cunha’s winner in Tuesday’s 3-2 Champions League comeback over Roma.
Those performances have caught the eye of Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson. When asked if he’s been in contact with Lacey over a possible switch, he said: "That would be for other guys in the association, but it was interesting looking at his Irish connection."
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The United youngster has represented England from U15 to U20 level. He is expected to be included in the U20 squad for the upcoming games against Czechia and Portugal in the U20 Elite League.
It’s not just international managers who Lacey is impressing, with Michael Carrick full of praise for the winger after his pivotal cameo against Roma. "Not going too over the top, but at the same time absolutely delighted for Shea," he said.
"We love him to bits. He's a great young man, he's desperate to do well, he's got great ability. So in terms of coming inside and finding the pass, that's not surprising.
Michael Carrick celebrates with Shea Lacey of Manchester United following victory in the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD4 match between Manchester United and AS Roma at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick has praised Man United youngster Shea Lacey.(Image: Naomi Baker - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
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"He's got that little glint in his eye, he plays with a bit of mischief, if you like, so he's always looking to have that.
"But I was just as happy seeing him defending as a right-back when we needed that in the moments when as a rounded footballer, you've got to be able to do that.
"So I was just as pleased seeing him do that in the defensive side, and seeing younger players take the opportunity. I think he gave everybody a bit of a lift coming on the pitch, and it was fantastic to see, and he made the most of what he had tonight."
He will look to impress again when United return to Premier League action this weekend, ahead of the international break. The Reds host Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon (4.30pm kick-off).