Erik ten Hag calls up 18-year-old Man Utd striker who has 'impressed' him for Bournemouth game

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has called another young talent into his first team squad for Saturday's clash against Bournemouth.

Despite an inconsistent season for United, Ten Hag has been consistent in placing trust in young players, with Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo the chief beneficiaries of that.

In addition, 19-year-old centre-back Willy Kambwala put in an accomplished performance against Liverpool on Sunday, and could keep his place for the trip to the in-form Cherries.

Fellow academy graduate Omari Forson has also made appearances for the senior team this term, and started for the 2-1 defeat against Fulham in February.

Now, according to Twitter account @AcademyScoop, which specialises in information and updates on United's youth teams, Ten Hag has called up striker Ethan Wheatley for the Bournemouth clash.

Ethan Wheatley is part of Manchester United’s match day squad today.

The young striker has impressed Ten Hag and coaches in first-team training recently, and is set to be rewarded with his first call-up. pic.twitter.com/78SUgKyUzu

— SCOOP. (@AcademyScoop) April 13, 2024

Wheatley has been a key player for United's U18 side this season, and scored a hat-trick in the stunning 9-1 away victory at Liverpool last week.

The 18-year-old's inclusion, therefore, may not necessarily come as a huge shock - especially as Ten Hag specifically referenced that victory in his post-match press conference after his team drew 2-2 with Liverpool at Old Trafford.

You can watch a compilation of some of his best moments below.

Wheatley was born in Stockport, and signed for United's academy at the start of the 2022/23 season.

He signed his first professional contract with the club in January, underlining how highly he is thought of among Old Trafford chiefs.

Alongside a picture of him signing the contract, the forward wrote on Instagram: "Proud moment for me to sign my first professional contract at Manchester United.

"Thanks to my family and all of those who have made this possible. The hard work continues."

Wheatley could find himself making his debut for the club on Saturday evening, with Rasmus Hojlund and Rashford - who will likely play on the left side of attack - United's only fit natural strikers.