The paths of Manchester United youth players do not always follow the rocket-fuelled path to stratospheric success displayed by Kobbie Mainoo.
Kobbie Mainoo is one of the exceptions when it comes to Manchester United’s academy players. Many pass through Carrington and leave, without playing a competitive game for the club.
And there’s no shame in that. Many go on to have very successful careers regardless. Dishon Bernard is a mix of both.
Dishon Bernard is a player who was one of the club’s 250 academy graduates to reach the first team, selected as a starter in the Europa League against Astana in 2019.
And while that turned out to be his solitary Red Devils appearance, Bernard is now an international regular.
Dishon Bernard stars for Jamaica
Dishon Bernard signed for Sheffield Wednesday as a free agent last summer, shortly after making his Jamaica debut in the Gold Cup.
This past month, he has been playing for Jamaica at his first Copa America tournament, where he now has six caps to his name.
Bernard played two matches for Jamaica at the tournament in the USA, featuring against Mexico, a 1-0 loss, and then Ecuador, a 3-1 defeat.
The bad news for the 23-year-old, was Jamaica’s group stage elimination. But he was proud to feature at the tournament despite the results.
He wrote on Instagram: “My first Copa America came with my many learning lessons however it also showcased to the world how far we have come as a nation and how we can compete against the higher rank teams.
“It’s now down to the small margins which we will tighten up and will be back stronger📝💪🏾
For the land we love.”
Mason Greenwood praise
Bernard remains in touch with many of his former Manchester United academy colleagues, who responded to his message.
Mason Greenwood was among them, sending a message of praise with the words, “Big player,” showing his admiration.
Greenwood has been linked with switching international nationalities to Jamaica, where is also eligible, so his message could stir some interest from the nation.
Teden Mengi, Charlie McNeill and Ethan Galbraith were among those to also reach out, with the latter also making his United debut in the same game against Astana. He also left the Red Devils last summer.
Dishon Bernard future uncertain
Dishon Bernard had a very successful season in the Championship with Sheffield Wednesday last season.
He made 36 appearances in all competitions, with 33 games played as a starter.
However, his contract at the Owls was only for one season, and despite interest from their manager in keeping him on, they have not managed to get a contract done yet.
Bernard is currently assessing his options, and its possible his performances at the Copa America might have stirred up a little extra interest.
If he does re-sign at Sheffield Wednesday, he could be joined by Charlie McNeill, who has been linked to the Owls following his release from United.
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