MANCHESTER UNITED teenager JJ Gabriel took part in first team training for the first time under new head coach Michael Carrick.
Gabriel, 15, has started in both of United’s FA Youth Cup wins this season and Carrick was in attendance for the 2-1 extra-time win against Derby County at Old Trafford last month.
Former United coach Ruben Amorim added Gabriel to his training squad for two sessions before his latest call-up.
The United Under 21s played at West Brom on Monday night, so senior academy players were unavailable for United’s senior session on Tuesday.
Shea Lacey scored a hat-trick in the 5-1 win and the 18-year-old was an unused substitute in United’s 3-2 victory over Fulham on Sunday.
The United first team had Monday off and Tuesday was a recovery day for the players who started in the Fulham match.
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United also now have 13 youngsters out on loan, which further contributed to Gabriel’s presence in Tuesday’s session.
Barcelona are trying to sign Gabriel and United have started to grant him more first-team experience at their Carrington training complex.
Amorim and United director of football Jason Wilcox had already taken measures to ensure Gabriel remains settled at the club.
Gabriel, who does not turn 16 until October, is not able to sign a professional contract until his 17th birthday.
The playmaker scored his first Old Trafford goal in the Youth Cup win against Peterborough United in December and United Under 18 coach Darren Fletcher said “the world’s his oyster”.
Man Utd ratings vs Fulham
MANCHESTER United made it three out of three under Michael Carrick with a thrilling 3-2 win over Fulham.
There were some superb performances across the pitch as they kept up their charge for a Champions League spot.
But who was the brightest star – and who could be on their way out regardless of who is manager next season?
Read Katherine Walsh’s player ratings right here to find out.
Read the full article here
