Following last night’s 5-2 win over Derby County, Manchester United’s U23s sit fourth after nine wins and five draws from 20 matches.
The three points saw Neil Wood’s side moved up the table, but they trail league leaders Man City by 10 points, and it would take something special to close that gap at this stage of the season.
Wood was without Charlie McNeill and Alejandro Garnacho after the pair featured in the FA Youth Cup just 24 hours prior at Old Trafford. The U18s booked their place in the semi-finals on Friday night after beating a decent Leicester City side 2-1, with Ralf Rangnick in attendance alongside AS Monaco sporting director Paul Mitchell.
However, Derby’s relegating battling U23 side were torn apart by the Reds at Leigh Sports Village, with five different United youngsters getting on the scoresheet.
The first goal was scored by left-back Alvaro Fernandez as the ball trickled into the net but Derby equalised early in the second half thanks to former United player Osazee Aghatise.
Hannibal Mejbri restored United’s lead from the penalty spot before a top corner finish followed by Emeran to make it 3-1. The French youngster was unlucky not to score again three minutes later, forcing a good save from the goalkeeper.
In the 78th minute, United sealed the three points when Charlie Savage headed home a cross from Fernandez.
Wood’s side made it five thanks to Shola Shoretire before the visitors scored a consolation goal.
Footage courtesy of MUTV
