Manchester United reclaimed top spot in the under-18 Premier League on Monday night after a 3-1 win.
The win sees Manchester United keep up the pressure on Manchester City in a closely contested title race.
Adam Lawrence named a heavily rotated side for the fixture given the close proximity to Friday’s FA Youth Cup win over Arsenal. In Friday’s game, the under-18s played 120 minutes in the 3-2 win.
With a semi-final to think about, Monday night was equally important for United, in the efforts to retain the under-18 Premier League.
| Rank | Club | Played | Points |
| 1 | Man United | 17 | 44 |
| 2 | Man City | 16 | 43 |
The cards are still stacked in City’s favour, but all United can do is continue to win and against Middlesbrough on Monday this is what Lawrence’s academy side achieved.
READ: Man Utd under-18s top scorers and assists in 2024/25, all results
Jim Thwaites and James Scanlon shine for Manchester United
With City looking formidable, United have to win every game and it is now three on the bounce after Monday’s 3-1 over Middlesbrough.
United were dominant – yet trailed 1-0 until the 71st minute when James Scanlon scored after United had over 20 shots.
The assist came through Jim Thwaites who stood out once again for the Red Devils as he also scored from the penalty spot to make it 2-1.
Scanlon wrapped it up in the 93rd minute thanks to a Tyler Fletcher assist.
United ended up with 67 per cent possession and 25 shots which demonstrates that the scoreline was actually a misrepresentation as United probably should’ve scored more.
With some standout performances shining through for the Red Devils, it was 17-year-old Thwaites, who made a statement.
Jim Thwaites could be Christian Eriksen replacement
The summer transfer window will be a struggle financially for United, which means some positions could see reinforcements come through the academy.
One player United will have to replace is Christian Eriksen, who sees his contract expire in June and the perfect solution to this could be Thwaites, who has a set-piece ability reminiscent of David Beckham.
In terms of his technical quality, there are few at any age better than Thwaites right now within Carrington. Thwaites has five goals and three assists for United’s under-18s this season which shows his effectiveness.
Thwaites can play in the number 10 position or in midfield with his energy and intensity sure to impress Ruben Amorim as he looks for midfield solutions – the best part is, Thwaites cost United nothing.
The talent of Thwaites is something which wouldn’t look out of place in a Barcelona midfield, and so we imagine that he will soon be knocking on the door for United – perhaps a summer breakout awaits him during the tour.
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