Bruno Fernandes and Lisandro Martinez have been praised for their role in helping Manchester United's next generation under interim manager Michael Carrick. The senior players have made academy talents feel at home as Carrick prioritizes youth integration.
Thwaites Impressed by Senior Stars
Jim Thwaites, an 18-year-old midfielder dubbed 'Mini Beckham' for his dead-ball skills, recently trained with the first team and was an unused substitute in United's 1-0 win over Chelsea. He highlighted Fernandes and Martinez as particularly welcoming. "All of them are really good to be fair," Thwaites told the Daily Mail. "Obviously, the ones that stand out for me are Bruno [Fernandes] and Martinez is really good, too."
Thwaites added that Fernandes takes youngsters aside to offer advice. "He'll take you to one side on the pitch and have a word with you and make sure you're alright. On the pitch, he encourages you and helps you reach the required standard."
Carrick's Youth Focus
Unlike his predecessor Ruben Amorim, Carrick has attended academy matches since his January appointment. He called up Thwaites, Fred Heath, Yuel Helafu, and Victor Musa for a recent Ireland training camp. Other academy players like Shea Lacey, Bendito Mantato, Jack and Tyler Fletcher have also featured for the first team this season.
Thwaites aims to follow their path: "I'm trying to learn as much as possible from the pros. I want to take in all the knowledge from them." He recalled his awe at training with senior players but now focuses on competing and showing his best self.
Dan Armer, another highly-rated youngster compared to Harry Maguire, will captain the Under-18s in the Premier League Cup final against Crystal Palace. He agreed that senior players help ease nerves with jokes and support.
