United Beyond Manchester

Through 80 minutes, it looked as if Manchester United’s U21 side would start the season without a goal and with a loss. Barnsley struck twice in the first half through Vigal Yoganathan, and the home side took a commanding lead into the half. The home side remained ahead through 80 minutes, but no matter the level, never count out a Manchester United team.

Days after confirming a new contract at United, 19-year-old Ethan Ennis got the young Reds off the mark with a one-time finish. Three minutes later, substitute midfielder Jack Fletcher provided a moment of pure brilliance with a long-range effort to level the score at two a piece. The 17-year-old was not done yet though, and in the 87th minute, won the match for United with his second goal.

Jack Fletcher, the son of former Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher, has impressed ever since arriving at the better half of Manchester. Along with his brother Tyler, Jack moved to United from Manchester City in 2023. He primarily featured for the U18s last year but has moved into a U21 side that featured many top talents against Barnsley.

First-team hopefuls Harry Amass, Toby Collyer, and Ethan Wheatley all featured, but it was the Scottish Fletcher who stole the show.

Two goals off the bench for Jack Fletcher sends a strong message to Erik Ten Hag. Watch out for the next wave of Fletchers in the Manchester United midfield.