Manchester United’s academy hit another incredible milestone on Wednesday night when Ethan Wheatley became the latest graduate to make his first-team debut.
The Reds won 4-2 on the night against a relegation-threatened Sheffield United after coming from behind twice on the night.
Erik ten Hag’s side made hard work of the win, but it ended in comfortably with a two-goal advantage.
Wheatley made history when he came off the bench to become United’s 250th player from the club’s well-established academy to make their competitive debut for the first-team.
The young forward came on in the final minute of normal time before the officials added an extra 9 minutes on for stoppage time.
The youngster scored twice on Tuesday night as United’s U18s beat Man City 2-1 in the Premier League Cup final.
Wheatley: It’s an honour
Speaking after his historic debut, Wheatley told MUTV what club captain Bruno Fernandes told him when he entered the pitch (via Manchester World): “He pulled me to the side and told me I’ve got nine minutes to try get you a goal.
“It’s a great club with a massive history, especially in the academy. It’s an honour to make my debut and that number 250. There were a bit of nerves, but as soon as I was stripped and ready to go, I was excited. It’s not been a bad 24 hours.”
Wheatley will be hoping for another opportunity before the end of the season and he can expect to be brought on pre-season tour to the US.
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