Old Trafford’s future stars

Joshua King on his first team debut last season

Having seen Chudi’s piece on United creating our stars rather than just buying them I decided to have a look some of the players who will be making waves at Old Trafford in the future. Some are knocking on the first team door, some still have some work to do but all have as big a chance as any to shine at Old Trafford.

Ritchie De Laet – The Belgian 21 year old has been a regular in the reserves and has been called up to the first team squad when need case in point the injury crisis. Looks likely to be first choice backup to Rio, Vidic and Evans but will be used during the cup competition against weaker opposition.

Tom Cleverly – The talented midfielder is already an under 21 international for England. Having been nominated for the reserve player of the year last season, this past season he was on loan at Watford and clearly enjoyed his time as he was named their players of the season. With competition for places tight in the midfield, it will be interesting to see if Cleverly will spend more time in the reserves or will be loaned out again.

Craig Cathcart – Regarded highly by Sir Alex, the tall defender looks to have the backing of the boss to make the cut at OT. Having already played for the first team in pre season friendlies, he has spent time on loan at both Watford and Plymouth getting some solid appearances under his belt. With Rio, Vidic, Evans, O’Shea and Brown ahead of him, he does not look likely to feature in the first team next term.

David Petrucci – The young Italian has looked impressive in his time at Old Trafford with the reserves and the academy team. Still highly unlikely though that he will be involved next season with the first team but there is no rush. Expect in years to come to see why Roma were so angry that we snapped up their next Totti.

Josua King – Leading the attack for both the reserves and academy this past season, Joshua King may well become Ole’s successor in the first team. Powerful and athletic, King possesses all the qualities to become a top class forward and this was seen in his cameo appearances against Wolves in the Carling Cup. Only18, first team chances might be limited next season but he is one for the future.

Magnus Eikrem – Another of Ole’s boys, Eikrem has made giant strides and is one of the foremost members of the reserve team. A midfielder with good ability and a set piece expert, he looks a good prospect injury has hindered his progress but if he can stay fit and show the qualities that saw him earn a first team squad number, he could very well make the cut.