Manchester United Football Club were eventually beaten by Kazakhstan side FC Astana this afternoon, though us Red Devils fans are left with a weird afterthought.
Losing is always tough under any circumstances, but we have every reason to come out feeling somewhat happy. This club has always had a way when it comes to developing youth and nurturing talent. Tonight was another example of that.
It seems as though the right-back slot is now becoming a seriously competitive position at Old Trafford. Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s summer arrival was a positive one, while Diogo Dalot has shown flashes of his talents. Today, a third player emerged; Ethan Laird.
The teenager has always been massively gifted, though injuries have definitely stunted his growth in the early goings of a promising career. This evening, he’ll sleep like a baby – all the hard work to force his way back was definitely worth it.
Laird looked strong and assured in the tackle, positionally solid, a willing runner on both sides of the ball and supremely confident. As you’d imagine, the United fans were buzzing about the 18-year-old over Twitter – and what a great debut it was!
Hopefully, there’s more to come from the young man, and no doubt both Wan-Bissaka and Dalot are looking over their shoulders!
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