Manchester United’s under-18s took victory in their opening FA Youth Cup match, with Jim Thwaites shining above the rest.
Tuesday night saw Manchester United’s FA Youth Cup campaign begin. Darren Fletcher’s side faced off against Peterborough United in what should have been a comfortable victory under the Old Trafford lights.
However, JJ Gabriel’s goal in the first half was the only difference between the two sides. United failed to get a strong grip of the game, despite naming several under-21 regulars, including Daniel Armer, Godwill Kukonki, Bendito Mantato and Jim Thwaites.
Thwaites held the armband for Fletcher’s XI, showing his class with his deft movements before brushing past a player like they weren’t there.
He is known for his set-piece prowess, but his performance in open play stood out. In fact, his performance could be noticed by Rúben Amorim for the upcoming Premier League matches.
Amorim must use Thwaites’ role
Thwaites was deployed ahead of the United defence, looking to control the ball and dictate play with his immense passing range. He was also crucial without the ball, often winning back possession to mount a quick counterattack.
The United captain performed similarly to Kobbie Mainoo on his Premier League debut against Everton under Erik ten Hag, sitting at the base of midfield and controlling the game.
The senior side has lacked control in recent weeks. Even in the 4-1 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Amorim’s side would have benefitted from a conductor in midfield, ahead of Casemiro.
If the United senior boss was watching the Youth Cup tie, he may have realised what he was missing in his midfield, although his stubbornness on the Mainoo matter can’t be forgotten despite a cameo against Wolves.
Thwaites could push on
While he started for the under-18s, Thwaites has been a regular for the under-21s this campaign, often pushing Jacob Devaney into defence.
The African Cup of Nations could provide him with an opportunity to make the United bench sooner rather than later, although he will be competing with Jack Fletcher and his twin brother, Tyler.
Read More: Manchester United U18s 1-0 Peterborough United U18s: Five things learned as Darren Fletcher’s side progress to the next round
Thwaites has featured as both a defensive midfielder and a No.10 in recent years, but his passing range makes him a viable asset across the engine room.
He will be taking notes from Mainoo and looking to improve his game across the coming years. One to watch, for sure.
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