Manchester United's teenage striker Chido Obi was forced off with a head injury just 90 seconds into the Under-21s match against Chelsea on Monday. The 18-year-old was struck by the ball after pressing the Chelsea goalkeeper from kick-off, and required five minutes of medical attention before being applauded off the pitch at Leigh Sports Village.
Obi immediately went down the tunnel to the dressing room, and his substitution had a significant impact on the game, with Chelsea going on to win 2-0. The Premier League and FA's concussion protocols mean Obi cannot return to competitive action for at least six days, and he faces a nervous wait to be fit for the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals on March 18.
Obi has been a key player for the Under-18s in the Youth Cup, scoring the winner in the fourth round and another goal in the fifth round. His absence would be a major blow to United's hopes of winning the competition. The youngster has predominantly played for the Under-21s this season and has made seven first-team appearances.
Former United midfielder Michael Carrick was among the attendees, alongside Steve Holland, Darren Fletcher, and Jason Wilcox. Carrick has regularly watched academy games since his interim appointment, demonstrating the pathway to the first team. However, Chelsea's players appeared motivated by his presence, with captain Shim Mheuka celebrating his opening goal in front of where Carrick was sitting.
