Manchester United’s youngsters need to step up and be noticed or they will fail to break though at Old Trafford, says veteran midfielder Ryan Giggs.
The 39-year-old, who recently secured his 13th Premier League title with the club, was part of a famous young generation of Red Devils.
And he has urged the next wave of talented teenagers to take any opportunity they are given and emulate him and his colleagues.
“I have seen so many young players over the years have a chance and not really take it,” said the Welshman.
“Others think ‘this is my chance I am going to make sure the manager takes notice’ and they perform like they have been doing in the youth team or the reserves.
Nick Powell forms a prominent part of United’s next generation of youngsters having joined United from Crewe Alexandra last summer in a deal worth up to £6million.
The 19-year-old’s first team opportunities have been limited this term, but Giggs singled him out as someone who has stepped up when called upon.
“Nick Powell did it earlier this season,” he said. “He came on against Wigan and scored. That is what young players have to do.”
Having confirmed their 20th top flight title last week, Sir Alex Ferguson’s side will no doubt be planning for the future already.
The Scottish boss has, in recent years, displayed a preference towards young British talent, with the likes of Jonny Evans, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Danny Welbeck and, most recently, Powell.
And with the last embers of the golden generation – Giggs and Paul Scholes – on their way out, Ferguson will be looking to lay solid foundations for when he departs as well.
Image courtesy of FATV, via YouTube, with thanks.
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