James Scanlon attracting interest from Scotland | OneFootball

When Ruben Amorim was appointed as Manchester United’s new head coach, fans were excited to see how the Portuguese would integrate the club’s famed academy graduates given his great track record with youth development during his time at Sporting CP.

The likes of Chido Obi, Harry Amass, and Tyler Fredricson all made their first team debuts under the new boss, with the Red Devils figuring second in the list for most minutes handed to teenagers.

However, this season, the picture has been very different. Hardly any academy involvement has been seen with United’s impressive youth record at risk of finally been broken.

Amorim has cleared the air, and there is a chance Shea Lacey might breakthrough during AFCON, but there is another academy ace who considers himself unlucky not to be granted an opportunity till now.

James Scanlon has not caught Amorim’s eye

James Scanlon was on fire last season, netting 22 times for both the U18s and U21s combined, while also registering eight assists.

Academy coaches were perplexed as to why Amorim had still not called him up, but his displays this term have shown that he is not yet ready for the step-up.

Playing exclusively for Travis Binnion’s U21 side, the Gibraltar international has managed only one goal and two assists and does not look as comfortable as when he excelled for the U18s.

The 19-year-old is keen to play competitive senior football at club level as well, and as per The Daily Mail, INEOS are looking at a potential loan deal in January.

Scottish teams, who have often taken in United stars on loan like ex-star Will Fish and Ethan Williams, are eyeing the Leicester-born ace.

Loan exit makes a lot of sense

“The ones to keep an eye on going into January are Gabriele Biancheri, who is eager to test himself out on loan, James Scanlon and Jayce Fitzgerald.

“The success of Ethan Williams in Scotland with Falkirk has a number of teams up there looking closely at Gibraltar international Scanlon.”

It is clear that James Scanlon needs to go out and play competitively, and the Scottish Premiership will not be a bad shout.

Jason Wilcox, and Under 21s boss Travis Binnion will have a discussion regarding the versatile attacker’s future while loan manager Jonny Evans will be tasked with finding him a new temporary home.

Feature image Dan Mullan via Getty Images

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