Manchester United may have a selection headache on their hands… but Shea Lacey is making a very strong case for more minutes. 😮💨⚡
The 19-year-old has continued to impress whenever he has been given an opportunity, showing the kind of directness, creativity and fearlessness that United’s attack desperately needs.
Lacey was particularly impressive during pre-season, scoring against Rosenborg and winning the penalty that Bryan Mbeumo converted against Atlético Madrid. His quick feet, balance and ability to attack defenders immediately caught attention.
And then came the biggest statement yet.
Lacey started against Brighton in the League Cup and scored inside the opening stages of the match. 🔥
Despite United eventually throwing away a 2–0 lead and losing 3–2, Lacey’s inclusion showed that Carrick is prepared to trust the youngster in important matches.
So the debate is becoming very interesting:
Should Lacey now be given a regular starting role ahead of Mbeumo on the right? 👀
Mbeumo has already demonstrated his quality since joining United, and Carrick has discovered that the Cameroonian can be extremely effective when moved centrally. In fact, all of Mbeumo’s goals under Carrick during pre-season came while playing as a striker.
That could actually create the perfect solution.
🔥 Lacey — Right Wing
🔥 Mbeumo — Striker
🔥 Cunha/Rashford — Left Side
Suddenly, Lacey gets the natural winger role he has been developing for, while Mbeumo can operate in the central position where he has already shown his goalscoring ability.
Lacey is also not simply another academy player waiting for an opportunity. United have already planned to keep him around the first-team squad, with reports indicating that he was expected to remain at the club rather than leave on loan.
His ability to play on the right and also operate as an attacking midfielder gives Carrick another tactical option.
And honestly, that is what makes this situation so exciting. 😍
United don’t necessarily have to choose between Lacey and Mbeumo.
They could use both. 🔴🔥
Lacey provides the natural width, youthful energy and one-v-one threat, while Mbeumo brings experience, physicality and proven goalscoring.
After United’s recent attacking struggles and their shocking 3–2 collapse against Brighton, giving the youngster an extended run could provide another dimension to the attack.
The kid has knocked on the door.
Now it may be time to open it properly. 👊🔥🔴