Manchester United starlet Tyler Fredricson said that it was a “dream come true” to make his first-team debut despite a 1-0 defeat against Wolves.
It came as no surprise that Ruben Amorim opted to rotate his Manchester United squad against Wolves, following Thursday night’s exhausting 120-minute clash.
The team’s performance highlighted the impact of Bruno Fernandes’ absence in midfield. His introduction in the second half immediately sparked United’s most promising chance of the game.
Unfortunately, Rasmus Højlund couldn’t connect—continuing his frustrating run—and United were once again left to rue their missed opportunities when Pablo Sarabia converted a free-kick to punish them.
There were some positives to take from the game, particularly the performance of Tyler Fredricson on his professional debut.
The 20-year-old defender started the game to become the 254th Academy graduate at United and looked extremely comfortable during the clash.
Fredricson sends message to United fans
Many were surprised to see Fredricson start against Wolves but Amorim explained that he had impressed him behind-the-scenes at Carrington.
90 minutes later and every supporter understood the United boss’ comments much better. Fredricson was praised online after full-time.
He also took to social media platform Instagram on Sunday evening to react to his first-team debut.
“Special day and a dream come true,” the defender wrote. “Gutted about the result but a proud day for me and my family. Thanks for the support, hopefully many more to come.”
Chido Obi came off the bench on the weekend and replied with a love-heart emoji to Fredricson’s post. Amir Ibragimov and Toby Collyer were also among those to send supportive messages.
Fredricson cameo proves Academy stars can compete
Fredricson and Harry Amass were two of United’s best players against Wolves.
Amorim has claimed that United isn’t the perfect environment for young players to thrive right now – and he’s mostly correct – however, some of these youngsters are good enough to compete with the first-team players.
Read More: Manchester United’s last 20 academy graduates and where they are now after Tyler Fredricson debut
Amass has produced better performances than most of the players who were stationed at wingback this season while Fredricson outshined the experienced Victor Lindelöf in the backline. Not to mention that Chido Obi looks more useful to the team than Rasmus Højlund.
With little to play for in the remaining Premier League games, it will certainly be interesting to see how other young talents compare to their senior competitors should Amorim bring them through.
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