Ethan Laird is all set to join QPR on a season-long loan deal.
Manchester United’s pre-season tour absolutely gave us a glimpse into the future. Without question, Zidane Iqbal looked the standout academy prospect.
However, the midfielder absolutely wasn’t alone. Charlie Savage looked equally as good in midfield, while Ethan Laird is another who deserves praise.
Questions were asked about whether Laird could challenge for a first-team berth this season. For me, the answer was absolutely yes. Diogo Dalot isn’t up to it, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka just isn’t fancied by Erik ten Hag.
However, the club have different ideas. According to Mike McGrath, a deal has been agreed that’ll see the talented 21-year-old leave United on loan for the 2022/23 season.
According to McGrath, Laird will head to QPR. There was interest from Watford, though they couldn’t guarantee Laird the regular playing time – which is exactly what United want for the right-back this season, so he can develop as a player.
I understand the decision 100%. Laird would have been a bit-part player should he have remained here in Manchester, despite the fact I really do believe he could be the best right-back at the club.
Laird now has the chance to play at a good level for nine months straight. This is his opportunity to prove that the club were wrong to let him go – and I fully expect he’ll become a standout player for QPR pretty quickly.
I guess it’s very easy to forget that this young man is still only 21 and has plenty of room to grow and develop as a player.
No doubt in twelve months’ time, he’ll come back to United a better player and in an even better position to challenge for a first-team berth.
Do you think this would be a good move for Ethan Laird? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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