Ten Hag could be forced to unleash Man United wonderkid against Aston Villa this weekend

Man United boss Erik ten Hag could hand wonderkid Shola Shoretire his first senior appearance of the season when the Red Devils take on Aston Villa on Sunday, according to reports.

It will be the second game for the Red Devils in a time period of three days, following Thursday's Europa League clash against Real Sociedad.

Throughout the Europa League campaign, several youth team players have trained with United's senior squad as they bid to impress and earn places in the matchday squads in Europe.

So far, Alejandro Garnacho has been the most successful, making three appearances in the competition.

Another player training with the first team, as per United in Focus, ahead of Thursday's trip to Spain has been Shoretire, who is yet to make a senior appearance for United this term.

In previous seasons, the 18-year-old forward has made three Premier League appearances, and played twice in Europe.

But he has been restricted to under-21 action this term, impressing in Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy.

However, that could be about to change.

How Shoretire could play for United vs Aston Villa

With suspension to Bruno Fernandes, Shoretire may be the chosen one for Ten Hag to slot on to United's bench for the match.

He is highly thought of at Old Trafford, with the club turning down loan opportunities for the forward in order for him to continue his development at the club.

They also did similar with midfielder Zidane Iqbal, who spent a week training with Championship side Preston North End at the end of last season, but ultimately did not go out on loan this season.

Ten Hag's mantra seems to be to develop younger players, where required, at Old Trafford, with the Dutchman already proving that he is willing to give first team chances to the likes of Garnacho, Iqbal and Charlie McNeill.

Whether Shoretire is next remains to be seen, but, over 18 months on from his senior United debut, the forward has done his chances no harm with some impressive performances at academy level.

And Ten Hag may see now as the right time for him to be given more involvement at senior level against Aston Villa.