What Shea Lacey said after first senior Manchester United training session

Manchester United's academy has been the shining light this season and there is plenty of reason for supporters to be excited for an even brighter future ahead.

Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo and Willy Kambwala have all shone at senior level so far this campaign, while the U18s are on course to wrap up the league title after a scintillating campaign that saw them thrash Liverpool 9-1 last weekend.

As well as the trio of teenagers shining in the first-team, there is also an abundance of exciting talent and untapped potential in the youth set-up. United supporters got a taste of that yesterday when Shea Lacey was spotted taking part in his first senior training session.

Not every youngster will make it as a professional, never mind as one good enough to play for United, but Lacey is one of those who could make it to the top if he continues to work hard and takes the chances that come his way.

Ahead of his 17th birthday this weekend, Lacey was invited to the first-team frame yesterday, the perfect reward for his hard work after a long injury rehabilitation process. Lacey has not been seen in action since he suffered an injury against Leeds U18s last October and was delighted to be back on the training pitch.

Taking to social media after the session he wrote: "Been a tough 6 months good to be back out there”, followed with a smiling face emoji.

Lacey is expected to return to action with the U18s in the coming weeks and after his recent senior involvement his dreams of a first-team debut might not be too far away. He is one of a number of teenagers who could be given a chance in the first weeks of pre-season when many senior players are away at the European Championship in Germany.