Neil Wood’s under-23s side came from behind to take three points away from Norwich City’s Carrow Road. Manchester United’s youngsters now sit top of Premier League 2 Division 2.
Angel Gomes stands out with chipped assist
Though United went one goal down early on, Angel Gomes quickly showed his quality in the under-23s. As Aidan Barlow ran through into the penalty area, Gomes clipped a lovely ball over three defenders.
Barlow finished the chance fantastically. It was the kind of creativity that Gomes often shows and will hopefully display with an opportunity in the first team.
Gomes hasn’t played a great deal of football at under-23 level this season. He’s only made five appearances, including two in the EFL Trophy.
Contract talks remain at a bit of a standstill. A deal has been offered to Gomes but he is considering his options, as widely publicised. More good performances like this one will be good for Gomes. He’s travelled with the first team and not been involved too much, leaving him without regular football and without the chance to impress or improve.
When Hannibal Mejbri came off the substitutes bench, he and Gomes combined well. It’s a partnership with some exciting potential.
James Garner puts in a typically composed display
Another player who regularly travels with the first team is James Garner and he dropped down for the second time in recent weeks. He was out with injury and illness over the festive period.
There were suggestions of a loan move for Garner, who still needs to adapt to first-team football; the pace and the strength of the game. Sunderland and Blackpool were the main two teams suggested. That deal clearly hasn’t materialised.
This was another typical Garner performance, full of composure, technical ability and one in which he dictated the tempo of the game.
Arnau Puigmal continues to improve
After a few games in central midfield this season, Arnau Puigmal returned to right-back.
That was partly a result of Aidan Barlow’s return from a loan spell at Tromso. Puigmal did well in his old position, where he has been played to improve his defensive quality.
He burst forward on a number of occasions, none more notable than his assist for Aliou Traore that allowed United to complete a comeback and go ahead.
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