Many of Sir Alex Ferguson’s last few signings have finished their playing careers already.
Robin van Persie retired years ago, while Phil Jones hung up his boots due to injuries a year ago.
One late Ferguson-era signing is still going strong, with Ashley Young playing Premier League football for Everton at the age of 39.
In football terms, Young is anything but his name. Highlighted by the fact his son is now a professional footballer too.
Ashley Young son makes debut
Ashley Young has a son who is now making his first steps as a football player, with Peterborough United.
Tyler Young, 18, has been part of Peterborough’s under-21 squad, and this week made his professional debut in the EFL Trophy against Stevenage.
He was a second half substitute in their 2-0 win, and posted on Instagram, ‘happy to have made my professional debut and great result to top it off’.
Ashley Young verdict
Ashley Young was signed at Manchester United in 2011 and went on to spend eight-and-a-half years at Old Trafford, leaving in January 2020.
Young went on to captain Manchester United, reinventing himself from winger to full-back in a move which has extended his career.
The veteran was bowled over by his son’s debut, writing: “Proud doesn’t even begin to explain this moment for you. Congrats on your debut Son and hopefully many many more to come.”
Young left Manchester United to sign with Inter Milan, going on to win the Serie A title for Antonio Conte’s side.
His former Inter and Manchester United teammate Romelu Lukaku wrote a congratulatory message on Young’s Instagram page, writing ‘Let’s go’.
Another Inter star, Alessandro Bastoni, had another slant, writing: “Time to retire for you!!”
Young is still going strong in the top flight, a testament to his professionalism, and he has maintained good relations with United supporters since his departure.
A former Premier League title winner in 2012/13, Young has also recently been working as a television pundit.
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