Young Manchester United players have become known for scoring spectacular goals through the years.
Alejandro Garnacho’s wondrous bicycle kick last season will live with him his entire career, while a young Wayne Rooney put together a dazzling repertoire of wonder-strikes in just his first couple of seasons at the club.
Another young talent is starting early too. Jack Fletcher, 17, scored a long-range half-volley in Manchester United’s under-21 win over Barnsley, a dramatic 3-2 comeback in the EFL Trophy.
Jack Fletcher, you have our attention
Jack Fletcher’s impressive brace won the game for Manchester United after Ethan Ennis’ goal had pulled one back for the Red Devils.
The goals were the best he had scored in a Manchester United shirt so far at academy level since his transfer from City in 2023.
Jack Fletcher is in his second season at Carrington and he will hope to use this big contribution as a platform to kick on from.
The teenager was part of United’s USA tour, the youngest player on the tour, and signed a professional deal earlier this year along with twin brother Tyler.
Their dad Darren Fletcher is part of the United staff and he was at Oakwell to watch Jack drive United’s impressive comeback victory.
The youngster was thrilled to make an impact and posted a celebratory message on his Instagram page.
Wayne Rooney’s seal of approval
Manchester United’s all-time leading goalscorer Wayne Rooney was among those impressed with Jack Fletcher.
Rooney responded on Instagram with clapping and applause emojis, showing his respect for the young prospect.
Harry Amass and Ethan Wheatley were among those to show their appreciation for their teammate, while twin brother Tyler just told him to improve his goal celebration.
Watch out for a loan
Wayne Rooney pays close attention to former club United and is the former teammate of Fletcher’s dad Darren.
While his own son Kai Rooney is in the United academy playing a few years down, and hoping to make his own steps in the game in years to come.
But could there be more to Wayne Rooney’s message than initially meets the eye?
Rooney is the manager of Championship strugglers Plymouth Argyle, who could try to do some business before the transfer deadline.
Let’s not be surprised if Plymouth make a late loan move for Jack Fletcher, at Rooney’s request.
Tom Heaton praises Jack Fletcher
Tom Heaton was in goal for Manchester United’s under-21 side, dropping down as an overage player.
He grew up with Darren Fletcher during his first stint at United, although did not play a competitive game alongside him, Heaton trained alongside the midfielder.
Heaton admits it it a little bizarre now playing alongside Fletcher’s son.
He told PA: “I started with Fletch from sort of 14, 15, so I had a long relationship with him, long time playing with him.
“So, to play with his lad Jack tonight – both of his lads (Jack and Tyler), actually, at certain points – is a bit surreal. But I think he’s got fantastic potential, a fantastic attitude. The two of them are real good lads.
“It is a big night for him. To come on and deliver that, what he did, made a big impact on the game.”
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