Omari Forson reacts to becoming the 249th academy player to debut for United

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Manchester United academy graduate Omari Forson has reacted to making his debut for the Red Devils during the 2-0 win over Wigan Athletic.

With the clock ticking down on Manchester United’s 2-0 victory over Wigan Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup, Erik ten Hag decided to summon Omari Forson onto the pitch for the Red Devils.

Forson made the move to Manchester from Tottenham’s academy in 2019 and he’s since made excellent progress, establishing himself as a key player for the Under-21 side.

As a result of impressing in the youth side, Forson was given first-team minutes for the first time and it was a special moment for the young midfielder.

Forson’s moment

The English teenager replaced another academy graduate Marcus Rashford during added time of the FA Cup game and became the 249th academy player to make their debut for the first team.

“I think it’s an honour. I’ve been working toward this moment for a long time now, so really happy to finally get my minutes,” a delighted Forson told the United website.

“Nothing much [going through his head] really, just listen to what the manager said, come on, work hard, and try to make an impact.

“Kobbie [Mainoo] has been playing quite a lot recently and there are a lot of other academy boys that have come through the same system as I have, so that’s really helped me.”

Kobbie Mainoo’s progression into the first team to now becoming a first-team starter has given hope to other academy players that they can break into Erik ten Hag’s plans.

Forson’s future

Despite his special moment for the Red Devils, Forson has just six months remaining on his current contract with United and has been linked with multiple clubs across England and Europe.

However, according to a report from the Manchester Evening News, the club are close to agreeing a new contract with the 19-year-old midfielder in recognition of his progression in the squad.

Ten Hag included the Englishman in the squad for the club’s pre-season tour and he also made the squad for the game against FC Copenhagen in the Champions League.

You wonder if Forson will be next in line for more first-team minutes once he puts pen to paper on a new deal.

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