This Sunday, October 30 is set to extend an impressive record at Manchester United.
Should players such as Marcus Rashford, Anthony Elanga, Scott McTominay and Alejandro Garnacho feature against West Ham tomorrow, United will extend a run of there being at least one homegrown player in a matchday squad to a remarkable 85 years.
Midweek, youth prospect Garnacho made his senior debut for the Reds in Thursday’s Europa League clash with Sheriff.
Whilst he was unlucky to not register a goal, he played with confidence and impressed supporters with his skill and attacking threat. He was met with a standing ovation from the ever-faithful Old Trafford as they applauded off yet another academy-made talent. Garnacho was later awarded Player of the Match.
United are renowned for producing some of the best talents in world football from their academy; Paul Scholes, David Beckham and Gary Neville were all United-made players, who went on to win the historic treble with the club – something yet to be achieved by any other English team.
Erik ten Hag credits United for youth development
Having come from Ajax, Ten Hag is already well knowledgeable about utilising younger players and giving them opportunities to make a name for themselves in a first-team squad, something he will continue at United.
He spoke on the matter this week to the official Manchester United website, saying: “To be honest, I wasn’t aware of that [United’s 85-year record] but it tells you something why I like clubs such as Manchester United. They give a lot of attention that they pay to the Academy and to teach players and build players, young players [to get them] into the first team.
“And I think, with those players, you can develop a culture, a certain style of play, because you have them long in your building.
“So it’s really important for every club but not every club has it, but Manchester United has it and I think it is of big value.”
