Antony has spoken highly about the impact Manchester United’s youngsters made in the first team this season.
It has been a season hindered massively by injuries, but that has granted opportunities for many players as we’ve seen several debutants emerge from the academy this term.
Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho will take most of the praise as they’ve been our silver lining in a terrible campaign under Erik ten Hag. We’ve also had Willy Kambwala in central defence but the French starlet is currently ruled out with injury.
During Wednesday’s 4-2 win over Sheffield United, Ethan Wheatley became the landmark 250th graduate to play for the first-team. It’s a remarkable achievement for the club, as well as Wheatley, who will be aiming for more minutes with the senior team before the season comes to an end.
In a recent interview with United Review, Antony recognises the process made by some of the club’s most exciting Academy graduates.
“It’s certainly been an excellent season for Garnacho,” Antony said, as quoted by ManUtd.com. “He’s still a very young lad and full credit to him for his performances. I’m really happy for him and hope he continues doing what he knows how to do with a focused mind and continues helping us marking, making passes and running for the team.”
Kambwala and Mainoo have also impressed the winger with their work behind the scenes as well as their contribution in games. Mainoo is now one of the first names on the teamsheet, whereas Kambwala’s stand out performance came against Liverpool at Old Trafford.
“I’m really pleased for them,” he explained. “Willy is really hard-working, always training hard and I’m delighted with the game he had against Liverpool [the 2-2 draw in the Premier League].
“He had a great game and I congratulated him afterwards.
“Kobbie has had a longer run of games. He’s a huge talent. I see so much talent there and I’m really happy for his performances.
“I’ve been in the position of these young players – although I’m still only 24, I was also playing at their age as well. With their talent, together with focus, a supportive family and looking after themselves, things will happen naturally for them.”
It remains to be seen if Antony will keep his place in the team after starting our last game against Sheffield United. The Reds host Burnley at Old Trafford this afternoon.
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