Noussair Mazraoui has singled out Shea Lacey, Jack Fletcher and Tyler Fletcher for praise after returning to Manchester United training ahead of the new season. The defender has only been back with Michael Carrick’s squad for around a week following his World Cup break, but says he has already noticed progress at United.
Mazraoui joined up with the squad in Ireland after Morocco’s World Cup campaign delayed his start to pre-season.
Several academy players received opportunities while senior internationals were away, with Lacey and the Fletcher twins among those to feature regularly during Carrick’s summer programme.
Speaking during United’s training camp, Mazraoui revealed that the trio had caught his attention.
“I’m impressed by Shea Lacey. He’s doing a good job.”
The Morocco international also said he had been impressed by both Jack and Tyler Fletcher.
Man Utd youngsters making their mark under Carrick
Lacey has featured prominently during pre-season and was involved in the victory over Atletico Madrid, while both Fletcher brothers have been given opportunities around the senior squad.
Mazraoui also discussed 15-year-old JJ Gabriel, describing his involvement at such a young age as unusual and highlighting the motivation United’s academy pathway can provide. Gabriel made his first senior appearance during the 2-1 friendly victory over Atletico earlier this month.
ReadManUtd covered Gabriel’s remarkable Manchester United debut at just 15 after Carrick handed him his opportunity in Stockholm.
Mazraoui has also been encouraged by what he has seen from the senior group since returning. He believes Carrick and his coaching staff have clear ideas and feels United are continuing to build on the progress made last season.
The next opportunity comes against Leeds at Croke Park on Wednesday night. Carrick now has considerably more senior players available, but Mazraoui’s comments underline how much competition United’s younger players have created during pre-season.
