Ethan Wheatley has revealed that Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes told him he wanted to create a goal for him during the side’s 4-2 win against Sheffield United at Old Trafford.
United clinched all three points to move to sixth position in the Premier League table.
A goal from Harry Maguire, a Fernandes brace and an 85th-minute strike from Rasmus Hojlund were enough to ensure the Red Devils ran out victors.
Apart from his double, Fernandes also registered an assist for Hojlund’s goal.
There was another occasion to celebrate for United as Wheatley became the 250th player from the club’s illustrious academy to make their competitive debut for the first team.
The 18-year-old made history when he came on in the final minute of regular time. It has been a fairytale 24 hours for Wheatley, who found the back of the net on two occasions on Tuesday night as the U18s beat Manchester City 2-1 to be crowned Premier League Cup champions.
From 1931 when Tom Manly became the first academy graduate to line up for the senior United team, Wheatley has now become the 250th.
Even more significant is that academy graduates now make up approximately half of all players to have ever sported the prestigious United badge.
After the final whistle vs. the Blades, Wheatley spoke to MUTV and gave his verdict on the achievement.
The teenager was asked what Fernandes told him when he was thrust into the proceedings by Ten Hag. He replied, “He pulled me to the side and told me I’ve got nine minutes to try get you a goal.”
Wheatley added, “It’s a great club with a massive history, especially in the academy. It’s an honour to make my debut and that number 250.”
“There were a bit of nerves, but as soon as I was stripped and ready to go, I was excited. It’s not been a bad 24 hours.”
Wheatley will be hoping to get some more minutes this weekend when United take on Vincent Kompany’s Burnley.
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