Tyler Fletcher became Manchester United’s 258th academy graduate on Saturday against Tottenham, holding his own during a brief cameo appearance.
Sitting with a comfortable 2-0 lead against Tottenham, Michael Carrick turned to his bench, deciding to give 18-year-old midfielder Tyler Fletcher his debut for Manchester United.
Fletcher was United’s 258th graduate, following his twin brother Jack earlier this season, and also in the footsteps of his dad Darren.
Despite only getting six minutes, Fletcher looked the part, completing seven of seven passes, meaning he didn’t put a foot wrong to help see out the victory.
After his debut, Fletcher was quick to send a message.
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Getty Images Tyler Fletcher sends message after Manchester United debut
Fletcher looked really comfortable in Premier League football, progressing play and getting forward.
So it was a very special moment for the teenager, as his message on Instagram confirmed after the game.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Fletcher wrote, “A dream come true to make my debut for @manutd. Proud moment for me and my family, hopefully many more to come.”
In the comments, United players flooded the comments with responses.
“First of many”, wrote Bruno Fernandes. While Wayne Rooney also commented, “Well done mate”, with a heart emoji.
Tyler Fletcher Instagram responses
Mason Mount also responded, adding, “Love it goaty, proud of you mate!”
Jack Fletcher was in the comments, “Proud bro”, with a heart emoji. Harry Maguire also added, “Well deserved mate”.
“Deserve it brother”, wrote Shea Lacey. Joshua Zirkzee said, “My boy”.
Gabriele Biancheri commented, “Congrats”.Amir Ibragimov said “Wowwww”, with a heart.Luke Shaw added, “Love it you.”Kai Rooney replied, “Yes the boyyyyyyyy”, with a heart.Godwill Kukonki said, “Congrats bro”.
The magnitude of responses to Fletcher’s debut from current players, academy players, and legends proves how highly regarded he is at the club.
Plenty more minutes to be expected.
Tyler Fletcher has become Man Utd’s 258th academy graduate
How do you think he did in his brief appearance? What are your expectations for him?
Getty Images Michael Carrick reacts to Fletcher debut for United
It wasn’t only on Instagram that club legends were praising Fletcher for his debut, as head coach Michael Carrick also discussed the debutant when talking with the press.
“It was a proud moment for me to be able to give Tyler [Fletcher] his next step, really, in his career. I never take that for granted, never before, when I was at Middlesbrough, and giving young players an opportunity.
“I wanted to get him out on the pitch today, just to sample it and feel it. He came on and did really well. It’s what this club is, and what a week to do it, with the anniversary of Munich and the Busby Babes and everything this club is based on.
“So it’s special, and I certainly don’t take that for granted. It was great to give Tyler his chance.”
Fletcher has clearly impressed Carrick and we wouldn’t be shocked to see more minutes awarded on Tuesday night at West Ham.
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