Man United fans think 'special' player is ready to be unleashed next season

Manchester United fans think one of their top talents is ready to be unleashed next season after a promising performance against Atletico Madrid.

United continued their pre-season preparations with a 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid, with Bryan Mbeumo scoring twice as the Red Devils came from behind in the second half.

But the level of excitement from United supporters was for 19-year-old Shea Lacey, who made his debut in a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa back in December.

Lacey made a total of four appearances in the first-team last season but the feeling from many is that he will be ready for extra minutes next term.

The England Under 20 international has looked incredibly sharp in pre-season and churned in an impressive display against Atletico.

He lined up on the right flank and cut in on his left foot in the first half, before moving into a central area in the second and winning the penalty for United's equaliser.

Lacey produced a fine piece of skill to jink into space and was caught with a trailing leg. His technical quality is undeniable, with Lacey boasting excellent ball control and a wand of a left foot.

According to Statman Dave, against Atleti, Lacey had a total of 30 touches, 100% cross accuracy, seven ball recoveries, four passes in the final third and two successful take-ons as some of his statistical highlights.

After seeing him strut his stuff, plenty of United supporters are convinced he will have a big role to play.

One user on X wrote: "Shea Lacey won a penalty against Atletico Madrid. I think he is ready lads...

A second said: "Shea Lacey what a special player, rising star to watch.

A third wrote: "Nah Shea Lacey man. Kid is a baller. Will definitely get some first team minutes in the season."

A fourth agreed: "Shea Lacey is actually different. The confidence, the touches, the way he moves with the ball… you can see there’s something special there. United need to give this boy minutes."

Man United make decision on Shea Lacey amid impressive display

United have been busy in the transfer market with the additions of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, who also caught the eye with his showing against Atletico.

However, the club are still poised to give opportunities to their most talented young players for the upcoming campaign - with Lacey said to be at the top of the academy queue according to Simon Stone of the BBC.

Lacey has been training regularly with the first-team and scored a fine goal to open the scoring in a 5-0 pre-season win over Rosenborg.

He is not expected to be loaned out, with Lacey and Jack Fletcher, son of United legend Darren, the two knocking on the door of the first-team.

With United returning to European football next season, Lacey could be useful when the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount need a rest.

But he could also be an alternative to Mbeumo or Amad Diallo on the right flank.

United are back in action on Saturday when they take on European champions Paris Saint-Germain.