Savage and Garnacho inspire Manchester United under-23s to impressive win at Old Trafford

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Alejandro Garnacho had a very good day on Friday as his place in Argentina’s 23-man World Cup qualifying squad was formally announced.

The youngster was part of Manchester United’s under-23 squad who took on Everton on Friday night, beginning the game on the bench.

Everton’s young side began the game hoping to frustrate United, lining up with a back five, and for the first half they managed to do so, with the first 45 ending goalless.

The first goal was always going to be crucial and it came through Wales youth international Charlie Savage, who struck his second of the season, after a pass from winger Noam Emeran.

Then on came Garnacho and United’s attack got a lot more lively. The extra pace and directness the Argentine international brought to the team was evident, and he was clearly comfortable playing at Old Trafford, where he has thrived for the under-18s in the Youth Cup.

Garnacho grabbed his first under-23 goals in December with a brace against Blackburn, and now he has his first under-23 assist.

The 17-year-old ran into the penalty box with the ball before squaring it to D’Mani Mellor, who finished clinically.

Mellor then grabbed his second to make it 3-0, after more good work by Garnacho down the left. His ball into the box was helped on by Shola Shoretire, into Mellor, whose shot found its way in after the goalkeeper made a mess of it.

Shoretire now has 10 assists for the season in all competitions, while Garnacho has six, to add to his 15 goals.

Garnacho nearly made it four goals on the night after being put through by Hannibal. When he seemed bound to score, his shot was saved by the onrushing goalkeeper, a reminder that even when things are going well for him, there is always room for improvement.

Bounce back win

United’s under-23s were beaten 3-0 at Leeds on Tuesday with a poor performance on a night in which they probably had half an eye on the first team’s match with Atletico.

Whatever the reason for the disappointing result, United’s team needed to bounce back strongly and they did so, with a mirroring 3-0 win.

Mellor, 21, worked hard all game leading the line and he is now up to seven goals for the season, playing an important role in helping the younger members of the squad out.

The victory moves United’s under-23 side up to fourth place in the table, with this the 10th win of the campaign.