One young Manchester United star looks set for a senior call-up to his international side after impressing in recent matches for the youth sides
Several Manchester United academy talents could be set for senior international football sooner rather than later, due to their maturity despite their young age.
James Scanlon, an attacking midfielder who can also play on the left wing, has already made his international debut, becoming a regular fixture in the Gibraltar squads in recent matches.
Gabriele Biancheri could also see a first-team international appearance after being called up by Craig Bellamy for the Wales training squad, while Rúben Amorim’s side were on their post-season tour in Asia.
The young striker has also trained with Canada this summer; former Leeds manager Jesse Marsch called him up in an attempt to get Biancheri to declare for Canada, which he qualifies for because of his mother, rather than Wales, the country of his birth.
Chido Obi made his Denmark under-21s debut earlier this year, but if he continues his good run of form next season, his senior squad debut could come in the first international break.
Kone set for Mali debut
Sekou Kone’s move to Old Trafford came after his impressive performances for Mali under-17s in the AFCON, where they reached the final but narrowly missed out on victory to Morocco.
After his first season with United, the young midfielder has gone to play for the under-20s side in France in the Maurice Revello Tournament, where Mali face Panama, Saudi Arabia and the host nation of France.
In the game against Panama, Kone was subbed on after 77 minutes, with his side 2-0 down, and impressed many with two crucial actions before the end of the game. He won the ball back from Panama possession and his quick first touch saw him wiped out by Jose Alfredo Marengo Armuelle, resulting in a red card.
After his substitution, Kone took the free kicks and was given the responsibility of delivering the ball into the box in the final minute. Wilson Samake met the cross and he headed home to give Mali a consolation goal before the final whistle.
Mali still have France and Saudi Arabia still to play in the group stage, with Kone more likely to be involved from the start after his return from United’s post-season tour.
However, they could be his last appearances for Mali’s youth sides as Saintfiet, the head coach of the first team, told reporters that Kone and Ibrahim Diarra (Barcelona) will join the senior squad soon.
Kone loan move paves way for Fletcher minutes
It was revealed last month that Kone and Enzo Kana Biyik would move on loan to Laussane next season, as part of the beginning of utilising Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s multi-club model.
If the midfielder remained at Old Trafford next season, he would likely see some involvement in the first team, with Casemiro ageing and United now having to play in the first round of the Carabao Cup.
However, his loan away from the club could see another youngster receive the minutes he would have. Tyler Fletcher was involved in United’s post-season tour, playing both as an attacking midfielder and as a defensive ball-winner.
The Scotsman has impressed this season for Travis Binnion’s under-21s side and if he continues, it might not be long before he plays for the first team, potentially along with his brother Jack.
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