Manchester United’s 18-year-old academy graduate, Ethan Wheatley, made his first senior appearance in the team’s 4-2 victory over Sheffield United on Wednesday night. Despite his brief time on the field, club captain Bruno Fernandes encouraged him to aim for a goal.
Wheatley’s debut marked the 250th time a United academy player has featured for the first team. He entered the fray late on, moments after the fourth official’s board went up to show nine added minutes, and with three points all but guaranteed.
There wasn’t time for Wheatley to score, despite his skipper’s encouragement and best efforts.
“Bruno pulled me to the side and told me I’ve got nine minutes to try get you a goal,” Wheatley recalled after the game.
United supporters were delighted to see more academy representation in the senior side.
“Seeing a young player from the academy make it to the senior team is what football is all about,” wrote one fan on social media.
“It’s a testament to his talent and perseverance,” was the verdict from another.
“Buzzing for Wheatley, I have high hopes for him. What a talent,” wrote a third.
While Wheatley wasn’t able to cap his debut with a goal, Erik ten Hag’s team still took all three points. They twice trailed, with Jayden Bogle and Ben Brereton Diaz scoring either side of a Harry Maguire equaliser, but two goals from Fernandes and one from Hojlund secured victory.
