Man Utd Academy Milestone Jack Fletcher Steps In for Kobbie Mainoo in Matchday Squad
Manchester United’s Jack Fletcher has stepped in for the injured Kobbie Mainoo in the squad for the upcoming Premier League match against Tottenham. This maintains the club’s remarkable streak of including at least one academy product in every matchday squad since 1937.
Injury Update: Kobbie Mainoo
Kobbie Mainoo, aged 20, did not travel with the squad due to a suspected minor injury. His absence marks a crucial moment as he has been a consistent presence in recent games.
Jack Fletcher’s Rise to the Squad
Jack Fletcher, an 18-year-old midfielder and son of former United player Darren Fletcher, has been selected to replace Mainoo. Although he has not yet made his first team debut, he has previously been on the bench multiple times last season.
- Jack Fletcher: 18 years old
- Joined from Manchester City’s academy in 2023
- Selected for England’s Under-19 squad
- Could face his twin brother, Tyler, in European qualifiers
Manchester United’s Academy Legacy
United’s commitment to utilizing homegrown talent stands strong. The club boasts over 88 years and more than 4,000 consecutive games featuring an academy graduate in their matchday lineup.
| Date | Match | Players |
|---|---|---|
| 30 October 1937 | Away at Fulham | Tom Manley, Jack Wassall |
Current Academy Players in the Squad
Besides Jack Fletcher, other academy graduates include:
- Tom Heaton: Third choice goalkeeper
- Tyler Fredricson: Recently started in the EFL Cup against Grimsby
Despite challenges, including criticism of the academy’s standards from minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, manager Ruben Amorim is committed to preserving this historic legacy. He stated he would not be the coach to end this impressive record of homegrown players on the matchday squad.
