Manchester United play in the third round of the Carabao Cup tonight against West Ham.

The only specifics we know for sure ahead of the game is that Jesse Lingard, Alex Telles and Anthony Elanga have been guaranteed to be involved in the squad, United confirmed, along with Phil Jones.

Key first team players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes are likely going to be rested.

What we don’t know, yet, is whether Edinson Cavani has been passed fit to play.

Anthony Martial will likely start in attack, with Cavani a possibility from the bench if he is ready. If Cavani is not ready to go, then, United may have an alternative.

Young Boys Bern v Manchester United - UEFA Youth League
(Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Will Charlie McNeill be called up?

Manchester United’s under-21 side took on Bradford City in the EFL Trophy last night. Shola Shoretire and Teden Mengi were among the players who started, and likely won’t be in the squad against West Ham.

Hannibal missed the game due to suspension and so could be in the first team squad, while Anthony Elanga was left out – to focus on the first team, Solskjaer confirmed.

One surprise and notable name missing from the under-21s line-up was striker Charlie McNeill.

McNeill started and scored in the previous under-21 game in the EFL Trophy, netting in the 3-2 loss at Lincoln.

 

This is one of two goals he has this season since stepping up from the under-18s, and at the weekend he was in action as a substitute, making a game changing impact.

It was McNeill’s hard work inside the penalty box against Brighton which set up Zidane Iqbal for the 89th minute winner.

Prior to last night, McNeill had featured in all five under-23 games, the one EFL Trophy game, and the one UEFA Youth League match. This was the first game he has missed. Curious timing.

We are certainly speculating here, based on the circumstances with United possibly needing a young forward to fill in on the bench if Cavani is not fit, and McNeill’s surprise absence against Bradford. But he could be one to look out for tonight.

A promising and prolific young forward

McNeill, now 18, signed for Manchester United from Manchester City a year ago.

Last season he scored 25 goals for United’s under-18s side, which included 24 in 21 league matches.

Manchester United U23 v Manchester City EDS: Premier League 2
(Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images)

It is a long shot McNeill plays for United against West Ham, but it is possible he makes the bench.

Of course, McNeill’s absence from the under-21s against Bradford could have been down to an injury the club have not disclosed.

But it would be so much more exciting if he has been called up to the first team, and we will soon find out this evening.

Have something to tell us about this article?