Rhys Bennett could make Manchester United’s bench against Omonia tonight

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Manchester United welcomed a new face to first team training on Wednesday when Rhys Bennett trained with Erik ten Hag’s side.

Bennett had previously featured with the team during the international break as part of a smaller group. This time he was with the full squad.

The young defender was seen in a highlight video of the training session posted via the club website, joining Alejandro Garnacho, Shola Shoretire and Zidane Iqbal by stepping up to the main group on the eve of the game.

The timing of Bennett’s call-up could be significant, there is a strong chance he makes the bench against Omonia later tonight.

Rhys Bennett could make Manchester United’s bench

There is a very obvious reason why Erik ten Hag has turned to Rhys Bennett to supplement the defensive group, and this is because the side is short on centre-backs.

Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martinez are expected to start the game, with Raphael Varane also fit again, expected to be saved for the game against Newcastle on Sunday.

Harry Maguire remains out injured with a thigh injury, while Axel Tuanzebe is still missing with an injury. Phil Jones is not fit, and has not even been registered for the Europa League squad.

United are also without Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who missed out with an injury once again.

This could see Bennett named on the bench against Omonia, in the same way Tyler Fredricson was part of the matchday squad against Real Sociedad, an unused substitute on the night.

It’s possible United would rather drop Scott McTominay, Casemiro, or one of the full-backs into central defence than use Bennett if the game is tight, or shift formations.

But if United have a healthy lead and Erik ten Hag wishes to introduce a few youngsters for the final 10-20 minutes, Bennett has a chance of making an appearance.

FA Youth Cup winning captain

The big stage of Old Trafford on a European night is unlikely to phase Rhys Bennett. United have already tested him with a big pressure atmosphere during the FA Youth Cup run.

Bennett was Manchester United’s captain during the under-18s silverware run last season, which saw 70,000 fans attend the final at Old Trafford.

The teenager scored the game’s opening goal in the 3-1 final win over Nottingham Forest, before Alejandro Garnacho scored a brace to win the match.

Bennett, 18, also featured for United in the UEFA Youth League last season, scoring an equalising goal against Borussia Dortmund in the knockout round before the Red Devils were eliminated on penalties.

This season United have promoted Bennett to the under-21 side, in which he has established himself as a regular. Now first team boss Erik ten Hag is taking a closer look.