Man United's plans for their very own Phil Foden revealed after impressive England milestone

Manchester United are in no rush to give wonderkid Shea Lacey his first-team debut, TBR Football understands.

Shea Lacey has caught the eye in United’s academy sides this season and was rewarded with his first England U20s call-up during the current international break.

The 18-year-old midfielder even took part in a senior training session led by Thomas Tuchel on Wednesday, another sign of his impressive potential and rising stock.

Man United are known to be impressed with Lacey’s ability, but because of the turbulent atmosphere around the club’s first-team crop, he will have to wait a little while longer for his big moment.

Exclusive: Shea Lacey not ready for United’s first team

TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey can reveal that United are confident Lacey will go on to enjoy a bright future at Old Trafford, but they are reluctant to promote him too soon.

“He’s a very highly-rated player, a really good talent,” said Bailey. “I’ve seen bits of him when watching United’s youth teams, and they absolutely love him at the club. It’s just not an ideal situation for him to come into right now.

“He’s not really a number 10 – more of a winger – and at the moment, it’s not the right time for United to be blooding too many youngsters. From my understanding, he’s not quite ready for first-team football yet, but they rate him very highly.

“Having Jason Wilcox overseeing the football department is a big plus for him. Wilcox came through the City academy system, and that gives confidence that Lacey’s development is in good hands.

“United are very happy with him and see a huge future there, but his first-team introduction isn’t imminent. It’s just a tough time to bring young players into this environment.”

The youngster has often drawn comparisons with Phil Foden, who trod a very similar path at Manchester City before exploding under Pep Guardiola.

Warning signs for Shea Lacey

United have produced some of the greatest players ever to represent England, but others never quite made it at the top level despite impressing for the Young Lions.

Lacey would therefore do well to avoid a repeat of Teden Mengi’s experience four years ago.

Former United defender Mengi currently plays for Luton Town in League One following back-to-back relegations, a stark contrast to his time training with England’s senior team in October 2021.

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