Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has hinted that three of his young stars could play a part in Saturday's Manchester derby against Manchester City.
United go into the huge Premier League clash, which kicks off at 12:30pm on Saturday, with most of the momentum, having won their last eight games in all competitions.
Their latest victory came in the Carabao Cup, when they defeated Charlton 3-0 at Old Trafford to reach the semi-finals.
Advert
It is a stage that City will not feature in this season, having suffered a surprise 2-0 loss at Southampton on Wednesday. What was even more shocking was that Pep Guardiola's side failed to register a shot on target in a match for the first time since 2018.
The Cityzens, therefore, will be looking to use the derby to bounce back in style. But United could move to just one point behind them in third place with a victory - meaning it is a vital encounter for both sides.
The form of Ten Hag's side has been even more promising given they have suffered a number of injury issues in recent weeks. Donny van de Beek is out of the derby, whilst Anthony Martial and Diogo Dalot are both doubts. Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho has not played for United since before the World Cup as he works his way back into contention.
In recent weeks, therefore, Ten Hag has given more opportunities to younger players in his squad, with Kobbie Mainoo, Anthony Elanga and Facundo Pellistri all featuring against Charlton.
Advert
And he has said he isn't afraid of using his starlets going forward.
Ten Hag hints at opportunity for Man Utd wonderkids
Speaking prior to the Manchester derby, the Dutchman praised the younger stars for their performances, and hinted there will be more opportunities to impress down the line.
He said: "From the numbers here, from the signing of Wout [Weghorst], but also the development of some of the young players.
Advert
"I think Alejandro Garnacho is the best example, but also in the week we have seen Kobbie Mainoo, we have seen Facundo Pellistri. I think we also have some good talented young players in the back, who can fight for the minutes.
"They have to deserve it in the training. And when they are ready to compete and deserve in the training, I'm not hesitating to play them.
"But they have to show it, that they contribute to this team and that they can contribute to the high targets we have."
Whether Ten Hag does opt for any of his more inexperienced players to make an appearance, either from the start or from the bench, against City will certainly be worth keeping an eye on.
Topics: Erik Ten Hag, Premier League, Manchester United, Manchester City
Ryan Smart