The Manchester United academy has several elite prospects emerging right now, which often means some names can be left forgotten.
However, under Jason Wilcox’s watchful eye, one U21 player made his message loud and clear.
Tuesday night saw the Manchester United U21s face off against Huddersfield in the EFL Trophy with a place in the knockouts at stake.
United lost 4-1 on the night – however, for 60 or 70 minutes made a really good run of things against senior opposition.
Tyrell Malacia made his return to on-field action in this game, playing 45 minutes in the process at left-back. Meanwhile, Sekou Kone made his first start for United U21s – although was withdrawn through injury in the 42nd minute.
Ethan Ennis will have caught Jason Wilcox’s eye
Despite the final outcome of the game on Tuesday night, a couple of the youngsters were very impressive for Manchester United – with the goalscorer Victor Musa expertly replacing the goals of Gabriele Biancheri and Ethan Wheatley (with both away on international duty).
However as brilliant as his goal was, it was the wing wizardry of Ethan Ennis which made it all possible.
Ennis nutmegged his opposite number before cutting back a pacy pass to find Musa who then back heel-flicked it into the far corner.
Other than the assist, Ennis showed throughout the game that he is a traditional wideman who is capable of threatening defences.
- 90 minutes
- 1 assist
- 34 touches
- 2 key passes
- 1 cross
- 1 big chance created
- 3 dribbles completed
- 6 duels won
- 1 clearance
- 2 tackles
Ennis’ performances in the EFL Trophy against senior opposition has been more than encouraging – as it was his fourth goal contribution in the competition in just three games.
- Goal vs Barnsley
- Goal and Assist vs Doncaster
- Assist vs Huddersfield
For the 19-year-old, the performance will be even sweeter knowing some key figures were watching on.
Ennis sends Ruben Amorim a message right in front of Jason Wilcox
On Monday, Wilcox was spotted welcoming Amorim to Manchester at Carrington, and on Tuesday night he was up in Huddersfield keeping an eye on the U21s.
Wilcox was joined in the stands by Darren Fletcher and Nick Cox who will all no doubt be helping report standout players to Amorim this week – and Ennis will be in the conversation.
Amorim might take notice too – with Ennis possibly fitting into the side in a wing-back role if they have the same attacking responsibility as the Sporting versions had.
Ennis is not ready to start for United just yet, but there is every chance he gets a squad role or even a big loan going forward.
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