Key points
After a domineering FA Youth Cup clash, Manchester United returned to action on Saturday morning against Wolves in the U18 Premier League.
Manchester United’s U18 side were in incredible form coming into this one, and it continued against Wolves.
After two goals in the space of two minutes from a JJ Gabriel stunner with his left foot and then Noah Ajayi effectively put the game to bed early.
Then, after a slower second half, Wolves pulled one back, but that only acted as a consolation with Gabriel adding a third from the penalty spot.
Where do you think JJ Gabriel will be by the time he is 18?🔮
He's been playing against 18-year-olds all season, but how good will he be in three years?
Another wonderful performance by Gabriel and Ajayi in particular, with Jay McEvoy impressing in midfield.
You can follow along with the latest updates before, during, and after the match.
- Manchester United (Gabriel x2, Ajayi) 3-1 Wolves
Goal ruled out
Gabriel has the ball in the net again but it’s ruled out for a handball in the build-up.
[Link]Amir Ibragimov spotted
He’s not on the bench today, but he is sitting among the substitutes as he continues to fight for his return.
[Link]United coming close to a third
United banging on the door for a third, could be over before half-time.
[Link]2-0 Manchester United
Noah Ajayi makes it 2-0 with a really tidy finish, placing it with his left foot past the goalkeeper.
Assist: Shah
[Link]1-0 Manchester United
WHAT A GOAL from JJ Gabriel. Dribbles in circles before firing it against the underside of the crossbar with his left foot. Brilliant. Absolutely no saving that for the goalkeeper.
Also praise for Armer with a really well-placed pass to put Gabriel in that position.
Assist: Armer
[Link]Michael Carrick in attendance
Carrick, once again watching the U18s, stood behind the United goal to the right. Potentially watching Yuel Helafu based on his positioning. He’s alongside Steve Holland.
[Link]Wolves solid defensively
No way through for United so far. Gabriel is barely getting on the ball, although Fletcher’s side usually starts slow.
[Link]United knocking it around well
Good solid start by United, feeling out Wolves. Little in the way of attacking action, though.
[Link]Title race could be back on
United’s title hopes looked dead in the water, but after beating City last week, now Newcastle United are leading City which would mean United can cut the gap to one point and a game in hand with a win against Wolves. Must win.
[Link]Both Nkoto twins in the squad
An exciting day for United academy fans as Fletcher has not only started Douka Nkoto. But his twin brother Bassirou is back from injury after eight months on the sidelines, potentially to make his U18 debut.
[Link]
Manchester United confirmed XI
Heath, Helafu, Mills, Armer (C), J. Watson, McEvoy, D. Nkoto, Shah, JJ Gabriel, Bradbury, Ajayi
Subs: Z. Watson, McCormack, Kukonki, Brown, B. Nkoto
[Link]How to watch
The game is going to be live on MUTV at 11.30am for those with a paid subscription. But we will have all the scorers and updates for you as they happen.
[Link]When is kick-off?
United against Wolves will kick off at 11.30am GMT on Saturday at Carrington.
[Link]Manchester United vs Wolves LIVE
Welcome to our live coverage of the u18 Premier League clash LIVE.
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