Manchester United produced a dominant display in the FA Youth Cup fifth round to beat Everton 4-1 at Old Trafford. (You can read our full match report here).
Alejandro Garnacho’s solo goal in the 90th minute was the pick of the goals, with the 17-year-old displaying electric pace in the latter stages of the game to lead and score a counter-attack single-handedly.
The former Atletico Madrid talent was praised by MUTV pundit Febian Brandy, who told the channel: “That’s ridiculous play from him. It looks like the first min of a game, showing no tiredness, and composure when he gets in the box.
“I’m happy for him. He was man of the match, him or [Kobbie] Mainoo.”
Mainoo scored United’s second goal, which came after a Charlie McNeill penalty had equalised Everton’s opener.
England under-17 international Mainoo was praised by MUTV pundit David Jones, a former FA Youth Cup winner, who lauded his performance.
Jones said: “He likes to receive ball under pressure and entice other midfielders in to play round them. He’s got good decsion making.
“Generally his performance was excellent. I’ve been really impressed with him in the two games I’ve seen this season.”
Mainoo’s goal was a header after a cross from teammate Marc Jurado, from which he had to generate his own power and direct it into the bottom corner.
Jones also praised Sam Mather, who scored the third goal. He said: “He expressed himself, created chances, took his goal really well.”
Strong start to the year
United’s under-18s have now won five of the last six games in all competitions and are into the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals, as well as the Premier League Cup quarter-final.
Many of the players are also involved in the UEFA Youth League, where the under-19s are into the last 16.
The next FA Youth Cup game is back at Old Trafford again, with United drawn at home against Leicester City, who knocked out holders Aston Villa back in the third round.
With the first team causing ongoing frustration for United fans, it is a welcome relief to see the academy sides showing a bit of promise, with the under-23s winning their last game at the weekend too.
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