6 players that may represent the future of Manchester United

With United taking on West Ham in the FA Youth Cup tonight I thought this would be an interesting piece, there are some obvious omissions that I’m sure will be pointed out in the comments but an interesting read nevertheless.

6. Bebe: Age 20; Recommended to Sir Alex by former United coach Carlos Queiroz, the Portuguese winger signed for The Reds in the summer of last year for £7.4m.

Already a goal in the Champions League to his name, Bebe boasts electric pace, good positioning and strength which could see him emulate fellow countryman, Luis Nani. Don’t expect the next Cristiano Ronaldo, though.

5. Tom Cleverley: Age 21; Clever by name, clever by nature. Ok, that was cheesy but this lad is the real deal.

After a successful spell on loan at Watford last season, the midfielder has joined Wigan to prove he can mix it with the Premier League’s big boys.

A box of tricks up his sleeve and an established England U-21 international, expect ‘Clevers’ to be knocking on the first-team door next season.

4. Danny Welbeck: Age 20; Local boy Welbeck has already tasted the big time by playing an integral part in United winning the League Cup back in 2008/09.

A little rough around the edges, Fergie has sent him out on loan to Sunderland and it has paid dividents. He took a little while to find his feet at first but performances against Chelsea and Everton have proved he’s months, not years, away from a place in the Red Devils starting XI.

3. Javier Hernandez: Age 22; Who doesn’t have a soft spot for Chicharito? He’s young, he’s pacey and most of all, he just loves playing football.

It’s hard to believe it’s the young Mexican’s first season in the Premier League. The striker has certainly played his part in United’s unbeaten run so far, especially with the off the pitch antics surrounding Wayne Rooney.

Two key goals against Stoke City tell you all you need to know about this potential world-beater.

2. Ravel Morrison: Age 17; Talk of this lad has been the stuff of myths rather than legends at Old Trafford but comparisons with a certain Ryan Giggs will only add fuel to the fire.

Fiery pace, step-overs and a great delivery, Morrison is everything you could want from a winger. Despite his rumoured attitude problem, expect the watchful eye of Alex Ferguson to reign down upon him and put him in his place.

1. Jack Barmby: Age 16; The token wildcard in the list, young Jack’s father is the former Everton and Liverpool midfielder Nick Barmby – who made 23 caps for England.

The Red Devils wrestled Hull City for the youngster last year and he has already netted 2 goals in his 4 U-16 England caps.

Currently working hard in United’s U-18s, the tricky midfielder will look to benefit from the guidance of Cleverley and Bebe in the next few years.

This piece comes courtesy of Rob Morris from ‘Clean Sheets All Around‘ an alternative football site so check them out for both on and off field football matters