Fresh injury woes sees 18-year-old academy prospect promoted to United’s squad for FA Cup semi-final

Manchester United made the trip down to London last night as they prepare for a third final in two years under Erik ten Hag.

Unless you’re clued up on the Reds’ academy prospects, you might spot some unfamiliar faces boarding the train at Stockport Station.

United’s debilitating injury crisis has claimed Mason Mount, Sofyan Amrabat and Willy Kambwala as its latest victims, the latter of which was certain to start in today’s FA Cup semi-final due to the sidelined quartet of centre-backs.

As such, it’s left only Harry Maguire as the available first-team option in the position, and even he looked to be playing through pain during last week’s draw with Bournemouth. He missed the midweek training sessions through precaution before resuming full activity at Carrington on Friday.

The England international could well be partnered by Casemiro, as Fabrizio Romano claims that he has been tested in central defence and, therefore, could be called upon to deputise.

Rookie makes travelling squad after latest injury blow

Another option is defender Louis Jackson, 18, who has been promoted to the senior squad ahead of the fixture and was pictured making the trip (Manchester Evening News) alongside fellow youngsters Harry Amass, Habeeb Ogunneye and Ethan Wheatley.

He featured in the FA Youth Cup final win two years ago and will now be on the bench – or potentially play – in Sunday’s vital contest against Coventry City.