Bryan Mbeumo’s possible replacement during his African Cup of Nations absence could be found in Man Utd’s U21 star, who shone against Barnsley in the EFL Trophy.
Ruben Amorim will have to look for a replacement for Bryan Mbeumo in late December as he travels to represent Cameroon in AFCON.
Bryan Mbeumo has been key to the start of the season for Manchester United with two Premier League goals and an assist. This is United’s most G/A involvements alongside Bruno Fernandes.
Amorim’s reliance on his right side was shown during the Liverpool game where Amad and Mbeumo linked up to score in just over a minute.
With Amad also heading to AFCON, to represent Ivory Coast, Amorim may have to look to the Under-21’s to fill in the roles of the United first team stars.
Lacey’s performance against Barnsley may have secured him a place in the first team
Shea Lacey’s standout performance for the Under-21s in a 5-2 loss to Barnsley may have shown Ruben Amorim where to look when replacing Bryan Mbeumo in December.
The 18-year-old excelled despite the loss, providing an assist to United striker Chido Obi, although it could have been more with Lacey’s passing proving to be a danger to the Barnsley defence.
Lacey’s ability to press mimics that of Bryan Mbeumo, allowing the team to apply pressure to the opposition defence.
The footage below from the game, compiled by UnitedAnalyst on X, shows Lacey’s impressive ability not only to press the opposition but also to keep the ball under high pressure.
With the Under-21s still to face Rochdale and Notts County in the next two weeks, Lacey has a strong chance to impress Amorim against professional opponents.
Amorim’s lack of faith in the youth may prove costly for Lacey
Throughout this season, we have seen many young United prospects fall out of Amorim’s lineup rotation, with Mainoo stuck on the bench alongside AydenHeaven, whilst Obi, Tyler Fredricson and Diego Leon find game time amongst the Under-21s.
Amorim has, however, shown game time to Yoro and Dorgu this season, who have both impressed United fans with top performances despite their age.
Despite injury setbacks throughout the last two seasons, Lacey has found his way back into the U21 lineup, proving to be key to the team’s success.
Read More: Ruben Amorim impressed by Manchester United academy duo in training, debuts could come during AFCON
If Lacey’s impressive form continues, he may just find himself on the first team bench or even in the starting eleven in December, giving himself the chance to truly break through.
United’s lack of squad depth compared to other Premier League opponents may prove costly as AFCON swiftly approaches, potentially leaving Amorim reliant on breakout stars.
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