Manchester United’s 2-1 win vs Brentford was important for Erik ten Hag but their focus will immediately turn to the next one because fixtures come thick and fast.
For Jack Fletcher, however, this game will be unforgettable since it was the first time he made the Man Utd squad, sitting on the bench vs Brentford.
This was Fletcher’s reward for a blistering season for Utd youth sides so far and being selected ahead of more senior counterparts like Toby Collyer and Dan Gore is a major feat indeed.
It would have been an emotional moment for Darren Fletcher too, who got the chance to sit alongside his son, wearing the jersey of the club where he made his name.
Fletcher sent a six-word message after the game which prompted responses from Wayne Rooney, while Rasmus Hojlund was at his funniest best with his own reply.
Wayne Rooney and Rasmus Hojlund respond to Jack Fletcher
Fletcher has set the world alight for the U21s this season at the age of just 17 so it was only a matter of time before his ascent was rewarded.
After Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo’s injury, that occasion came sooner than expected although fans would still have expected Gore or Collyer to make the bench ahead of him.
However, Fletcher’s game is more similar to Mainoo since Collyer and Gore are more combative and defensive-minded style of midfielders.
That could have swung the argument in his favour and after the game, he went on Instagram to send a six-word message to the fans.
He said: “Great win and an unreal experience”, alongside photos of him walking out of the famous Old Trafford tunnel and talking to fellow academy graduate Ethan Wheatley.
United legend Wayne Rooney responded with a raised hand and clapping emoji while Rasmus Hojlund’s response took the cake for the best one as he replied with, “Show off” alongside two laughing emojis.
Harry Amass, Ethan Wheatley, Toby Collyer, and Shea Lacey were among others to respond while his brother Tyler Fletcher also replied.
Jack Fletcher can make Man Utd debut before season’s end
Not many expected Jack Fletcher to leapfrog tough midfield competition so soon after bossing the U18s last season but here we are.
The left-footed midfielder has the skill set that is missing from the first-team squad since he combines great technical ability on the ball with deceptive finishing skills by crashing the box.
His left-footedness also opens up new passing angles since all of United’s midfielders currently except Casemiro are right-footed.
It is probably why Ten Hag chose him over Gore and Collyer, neither of whom have set the world alight in their limited appearances for the club.
Gore suffered from injuries and is on the comeback trail, while Collyer was given a baptism of fire at the start of the season where he couldn’t come out with his reputation raised.
Fletcher could be the next man up and if takes these opportunities with both hands, United will again have a Fletcher to support in the squad.
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