- Manchester United youth star names his biggest inspiration
- Dan Armer names Maguire from whom he learsn his game from
- Manchester United take on Crystal Palace in the U18 Premier League Cup final
Manchester United youth star Dan Armer has named Harry Maguire as his biggest inspiration, as the centre-back looks to model his game on the United defender.
A Scotland youth international with a host of appearances for the U19 national side, Armer stands among the brightest prospects in United’s academy, with the 18-year-old expected to feature during the club’s pre-season fixtures this summer.
Before that, however, the centre-back will focus on youth duties, as he looks to help United complete a domestic double.
It could, however, have been a domestic treble, but United’s Under-18s fell just short, edged out 6-5 on penalties in the U18 Premier League Cup final by Crystal Palace.
Next comes the FA Youth Cup final, where United will face rivals Manchester City before 9 May, seeking revenge for the only previous Manchester derby in the competition’s final back in 1986—40 years ago.
Lastly, attention turns to the U18 Premier League, where Darren Fletcher’s side will hope Manchester City slip up in their final four games, as United look to close a three-point gap.
Maguire inspiration
When asked which Manchester United player inspires him most, Armer pointed to Maguire.
“I’d probably go with Maguire,” the centre-back said. “Obviously I’ve seen the comparisons online so he’s like someone I watch and I can try and learn from, and adapt my game to what he plays like.”
He was not alone in highlighting a United defender.
Jim Thwaites—United’s tenacious 18-year-old midfielder—named Lisandro Martinez as his biggest inspiration.
“Martinez,” Thwaites said.”Just because he’s helped me so much in the training sessions and coming into the first team environment.”
The two 18-year-olds also reflected on the recent FA Youth Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace.
“Old Trafford’s the best stadium in the world so it’s another chance to experience another Premier League stadium,” said Thwaites. “We’re looking forward to it, it’s going to be good.”
Captain Armer continues to embrace his role at the heart of defence, while making notable strides in his development.
“It’s an honour to captain the Under-18 side at such a big club,” said the central defender. “Hopefully, I can go and lift the trophy with them as well.
“I do quite like trying to be a leader and trying to give everyone bits of information and be loud, organised and things like that.
“So, yeah, I think the added responsibility definitely helps.”
Youth Cup final result
After a topsy-turvy contest, in which United controlled large stretches, Crystal Palace prevailed 6-5 on penalties.
United looked on course after Noah Anay’s first-half goal, but in the 92nd minute referee Fabio Roque produced a red card for Albert Mills following a contentious penalty decision.
The incident mirrored Lacroix’s red card against United earlier in the season, with Mills appearing to foul Ben Casey outside the area.
Regardless, Casey converted from the spot to force extra time.
Reduced to 10 men, Fletcher’s side faced sustained pressure from the Eagles, with goalkeeper Cameron Byrne-Hughes producing a string of outstanding saves.
Fletcher then turned to his bench, introducing Fred Heath in place of Byrne-Hughes in a calculated gamble reminiscent of Tim Krul’s 2014 World Cup cameo—though this time, the move failed to deliver.
Heath did not save a single penalty, as Palace secured their first U18 Premier League Cup title with a 6-5 shootout victory.
Fletcher’s side will be hoping for a quick return to form, as they shape up to face Manchester City in the FA Youth Cup final.
