Manchester United's academy is buzzing with activity as the new season approaches, with several young prospects making headlines. This week's Academy Notebook brings updates on Jim Thwaites, Cristian Orozco, Jacob Devaney, and more.
Thwaites Set to Stay
Jim Thwaites was handed his 'senior debut' from the bench against Atletico Madrid, and while a competitive bow would be more significant, he is making strides toward that goal. Carrick named a smaller squad for the trip to Stockholm, making Thwaites' inclusion a compliment. The midfielder has been on Carrick's radar since being included in the senior squad at Stamford Bridge in April.
There are no plans to send Thwaites on loan this season. He will feature for the U21s and train with the seniors when selected, with the aim of earning a proper senior debut.
How Orozco is Settling
Cristian Orozco officially became a United player on his 18th birthday last month, as his transfer from Colombian club Fortaleza CEIF could only be completed once he reached that age. He made his public debut against Altrincham last week, coming off the bench just after the hour mark and showing glimpses of quality.
Orozco appears more physically advanced than previous signings of a similar ilk, such as Sekou Kone and Diego Leon. While Kone required a gym programme to build muscle, Orozco already possesses a physique that should help him adapt to English football. However, he does not speak English yet, and coaches have been communicating through Spanish-speaking players like Leon, who has been helpful in relaying information. United sources have reiterated they will 'take it slowly' with Orozco, acknowledging he may be physically mature but still needs time to adapt.
Devaney Attracting Interest
Jacob Devaney earned praise from Carrick after his performance in the opening pre-season game against Wrexham, with the boss describing him as 'vocal and commanding.' Despite playing out of position as a centre-half against Wrexham and Rosenborg, Devaney showcased his versatility and enhanced his reputation.
The defensive midfielder's stock rose significantly in the second half of last season during a loan spell with St Mirren, where he started every game except two in the Scottish top flight. He will leave United on loan again this campaign, with interest from Championship clubs and teams in Europe. St Mirren was a brilliant starting point, and Devaney has now been earmarked for a loan at a higher level.
Behind-Closed-Doors Action
United's U21s played Altrincham at Moss Lane in their first public pre-season game last Friday. Between that and the start of the campaign, behind-closed-doors friendlies against Aston Villa and Ipswich were scheduled. The U21s recently won 4-0 against Burnley in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Carrington, and the matches against Villa and Ipswich will be the final chance to build fitness before competitive action resumes. United are set to begin their league campaign against Ipswich, making that friendly particularly useful ahead of the competitive meeting.
Everton's Interest in Wheatley
Everton are interested in signing United academy striker Ethan Wheatley, initially to strengthen their academy with a view to preparing him for their first team. The interest surprised some supporters, but former United academy chief Nick Cox, now Everton's technical director, is a huge admirer of Wheatley. Cox has watched Wheatley develop into a man, recalling how the striker was once a shy kid who disliked trips abroad, but has since matured.
Wheatley retains Cox's backing to become a brilliant striker. He has always been highly regarded, with Travis Binnion once saying, 'If you drew a No.9, you'd draw him looking like Ethan.' The 20-year-old did not shine on loan in League One last season, but Harry Kane had four loans before proving himself at Tottenham. Strikers can be late bloomers, and there should be more to come from Wheatley. It would be fascinating to see him move to Everton.
