Shea Lacey’s magical moment in senior England training will delight Man United

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Shea Lacey is arguably one of the brightest academy prospects ever produced by Manchester United, so it is no surprise that he has been tipped to reach the very top.

Aged just 18, Lacey has stood on the cusp of the first team at Old Trafford since 2024, and coaches are confident he is ready to take the step up.

His progress has been hampered by injuries, however, and only last week did the teenager complete his first full 90 minutes since October 2023.

He caught the eye during United’s post-season tour of Asia, impressing in his cameo appearances, while he also stood out in pre-season training this summer.

Relishing the spotlight, Lacey is also making waves for England on the international stage.

Shea Lacey trains with England’s senior team

After returning to the Young Lions’ U20 fold, alongside fellow United players Ayden Heaven, Elyh Harrison and Ethan Wheatley, Lacey joined up with his team-mates at St George’s Park this week.

Clearly, though, Thomas Tuchel and his backroom staff believe he will play for his country at the top level in the not-too-distant future.

Lacey was given the chance to take part in training with the senior team on Wednesday morning and looked assured among much more seasoned internationals.

The session was handily livestreamed on YouTube, and United’s golden boy was seen getting into the thick of the action.

Lacey participated in the usual warm-ups before working with Bukayo Saka in a low-tempo passing drill.

He did not look out of place and appeared comfortable, a promising sign for Ruben Amorim as he weighs up when to hand him his competitive first-team debut at Old Trafford.

Shea Lacey is ready for Man United senior debut

Lacey’s progress has been a hot topic among United supporters for a number of years now.

While he appears ready to make his senior bow, the club could also consider a well-placed loan during the January window to ensure he is given ample experience at a good level.

United’s new-look frontline appear to be slowly but surely clicking, but Lacey would represent an unpredictable wild-card option off the bench. He would also ensure ample squad depth in a crucial area.

Honing his development is a must for the Red Devils. Lacey is, without a doubt, one of the finest young prospects to have come through their academy, and they must be willing to take a chance on him.

It’s in the club’s DNA, after all.