Erik ten Hag calls up 18-year-old striker for Bournemouth game

The United boss's options are limited as he is forced to introduce Ethan Wheatley to the squad.

Wheatley was born in Stockport and joined United’s youth ranks at the start of the 2022/23 season.

He signed his first professional contract in January, on Instagram he said: “Proud moment for me to sign my first professional contract at Manchester United. Thanks to my family and all of those who have made this possible. The hard work continues."

The 18-year-old striker has impressed at youth level and will be inspired by fellow younger Kobbie Mainoo taking the Premier League by storm of late. 

To add, academy graduate William Kambwala put in a mature performance in last week’s 2-2 against Liverpool at Old Trafford. He looked comfortable in what was a chaotic game.

Erik ten Hag has certainly not been reluctant to hand youth a chance since arriving in Manchester; Omari Forson started the home defeat against Fulham in February.

United look unlikely to finish fourth, currently, trailing Spurs and Aston Villa by 11 points with just seven Premier League fixtures left. They, also, have the chance to lift silverware and secured a favourable FA Cup semi-final draw against the second-tier side, Coventry City. The Red Devils face the Midlands outfit on Sunday, April 21st.

The Mancunians will travel to Bournemouth on Saturday Evening without nine first-team players. United’s defence is particularly weak as Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof all nurse knocks. 

On the injured players, ten Hag said: "Scott? I don't think so.”

When asked about McTominay's involvement. "We have training, so we have a day and he will push.

"He is so keen to be part of it tomorrow, but I think it is very questioning. And then Rashford... Rashy trained yesterday and [we will] see how he recovered from it today.

"We will have training again today and then we will make a decision on it."

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