Manchester United midfield prospect Tyler Fletcher and attacking talent Shea Lacey are emerging as the academy players most likely to make a first-team breakthrough under Michael Carrick. Their progress matters as United prepare to reduce academy involvement in pre-season once senior internationals return and further transfer business is completed.

Lacey, 19, impressed from the bench against Wrexham and scored in the 5-0 win over Rosenborg, showing his ability both centrally and from the right. Fletcher, also 19, made his United debut at Brighton last season before receiving a Scotland call-up, an international debut against Bolivia and selection in the World Cup squad; coaches value his maturity and leadership as well as his ability.