Manchester United cannot complete season plan following fresh injury setback to starlet

Manchester United will be unable to give Shea Lacey his first-team debut after the youngster confirmed that he has suffered another injury.

The Reds have experienced an underwhelming season this term, but the youth has provided a bright spark for many supporters.

Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo have been two of the best-performing players for the first team. Meanwhile, the under-18s are aiming for a treble after winning their league and the Premier League Cup this month.

Ethan Wheatley also became the 250th academy graduate when he made his first-team debut last week against Sheffield United.

However, United were also planning to give a debut to another talented starlet within the academy.

Shea Lacey is one of the most highly-rated youngsters at the club and signed his first professional contract at Old Trafford after he turned 17 earlier this month.

The winger returned from a long-term injury last month and had been spotted training with Erik ten Hag’s first-team squad.

A report from Ben Jacobs earlier this month stated that United believed that Lacey was ready to step up to first-team level and be utilised during the final weeks of the season, with Ten Hag’s side no longer fighting for Champions League football.

Alan Nixon also reported that the club were planning to give the 17-year-old his first-team debut before the end of the season.

However, Lacey has unfortunately received another setback which will keep him out of action for the rest of the season.

The talented teenager posted an update on his social media, writing: “Gutted to have picked up another injury to finish my season early looking forward to next season.”

Many fans will be looking forward to seeing Lacey back in action, and he could be involved in United’s pre-season tour squad.