Being at Old Trafford on Tuesday night was quite incredible. Whether the feeling proves short-lived or sparks something bigger for Michael Carrick and Manchester United remains to be seen, but it was important to see a stadium that has been starved of moments to celebrate this season roaring again. There was plenty to dissect from the comeback win over Roma, but one of the biggest positives for Carrick was the impressive 15-minute cameo from 19-year-old Shea Lacey.
Lacey came on with the drive, confidence and quality to take responsibility and push United forward. His inch-perfect pass to Matheus Cunha was pivotal in setting up the winner. It was a moment he had been working towards since the age of eight, when he first chose to join United's academy.
His family, who are originally from Liverpool, allowed him to make his own decision about where he wanted to play his football. He chose the red side of Manchester. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Having worked his way through the age groups at Carrington, despite a few injury setbacks along the way, it was already evident last season that Lacey was ready for the step up to senior football.
Having watched him extensively at U21 level, I have always been struck by the confidence he carries on the pitch. It is not just his trademark move of cutting inside from the right flank onto his left foot that stands out. His vision, spatial awareness and finishing are all qualities that could make him an excellent fit for a United side lacking creativity.
He has the work-rate to match, too. Since beginning to train with the first team permanently last season, Lacey has put plenty of work in behind the scenes to ease his transition into senior football. He has shown real dedication in the gym and in the kitchen to prepare himself for the physical demands of the men's game.
He has also regularly stayed behind after training to do extra work with senior players and coaching staff, including Travis Binnion, who knows the youngster well from his time coaching him at U21 level. That dedication, combined with an infectious and bubbly personality, has made a big impression at Carrington. It has also caught the attention of Carrick, who wanted Lacey around the first team this season because he believed it could be a breakthrough year for the youngster.
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