17 goals and seven assists… Man Utd youngster could be the answer to Ruben Amorim’s injury problems

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Monday night saw the Manchester United U18s in action at Carrington as their title chase continued.

The game against Middlesbrough game was just three days after Manchester United played 120 minutes against Arsenal.

This was the win which sent Adam Lawrence’s side to an FA Youth Cup semi-final clash against either Aston Villa or Plymouth, thanks to Bendito Mantato’s winner.

Jack Fletcher starred in United’s 3-2 win, given the strength of line-up used on Friday, Monday saw a multitude of changes for the 3-1 win over Middlesbrough. The victory saw United’s academy side move into the top spot in the league – although Manchester City hold one game in hand.

The fixture saw Jim Thwaites in top form as he scored and assisted in the game, but his teammate might have been even better.

• READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Man Utd’s head coach – Ruben Amorim

James Scanlon having a breathtaking season for Manchester United

While Thwaites put in a pretty remarkable display on Monday night, James Scanlon was the star of the show for United.

The spectacular performances of Scanlon have been impressive for United all season long and Monday night was another clinic from the Gibraltar international.

Scanlon scored twice to help United turn defeat into a comfortable victory, something he has done on numerous occasions this season.

After his brace, Scanlon now has 17 goals and seven assists for United this season across both U18 and U21 levels.

Scanlon is a record-breaking senior international already, and his days as an U18 are numbered surely with his abilities a good fit for what Ruben Amorim is lacking.

READ: Man Utd under-18s top scorers and assists in 2024/25, all results

Manchester United’s attack needs James Scanlon

With Scanlon so impressive and also being that little bit older, the first team is calling his name.

The decision not to promote Scanlon has left figures at United baffled, considering his dominant form, it is clear to see why he should be handed the chance to step up.

These chances are helped by the status of United’s attack right now which sees only a few names – which gave Chido Obi the chance to impress for the first team.

Scanlon is one of the leading contenders to follow Obi – and he would give United a quality which not many in the squad currently have.

Manchester United attackers under contract

With Amad Diallo out injured, Antony on loan and also Marcus Rashford, United only have Alejandro Garnacho as an attacker who will dribble at defenders and ask questions.

Scanlon could do this for Amorim and he is quickly becoming undeniable. Perhaps he replace Obi in the Europa League this week as the striker is not registered.