Shea Lacey: Man Utd's young scouse star | OneFootball

Manchester United somehow managed to only manage a draw at Turf Moor in Darren Fletcher's first game as caretaker manager but the introduction of Shea Lacey for his second appearance was a highlight for the Red Devils.

The 18-year-old has an interesting story, a scouser coming from a family of Liverpool fans is hardly a recipe for a future Manchester United player.

However, his older brother Patrick Lacey went to Liverpool's academy (after having played with Man Utd), his father decided his two younger sons would stick with United.

Patrick Lacey's career has been a good example for young Shea in what not to do after he was sacked by Accrington Stanley for a drugs ban that saw him given a 14-month ban. Things got worse for Patrick as he was eventually caught at Glastonbury Festival with a large amount of drugs and counterfeit cash that led to a 16-month prison sentence before beginning a decent boxing career and returning to football.

And while the middle brother, Luis Lacey, eventually departed United's academy at a young age for Barnsley – he now plays for Macclesfield in the National League North – Shea is the one who has the potential to become a superstar.

Many United fans will likely have heard of Shea Lacey before he was on the periphery of the first team as he was long touted as a future star from the academy – much like 15-year-old JJ Gabriel is now.

Lacey's path hasn't always been easy though with injury issues meaning that it has been difficult for him to get a regular run. No doubt United's coaches will be aware of that as he pushes for more first team football and they may be restrained in the game time he is given.

But the 18-year-old's cameo against Burnley will have had some fans hoping to see more soon.

"I know he is going to make an impact, he’s creative and has got goals in him," Fletcher said after the game. 

"He’s exciting, direct and fearless. He hit the crossbar and had another shot and had a really bright game. I'm pleased for him. He’s had a lot of injuries in recent years and not really got going with his momentum but we know he's a talent who has got to be a big part of Manchester United’s future, I've no doubts about that."

With players soon to return to the club from AFCON and injuries and an uncertain managerial future, Lacey may not get too much time to shine this season but his unlikely path from a family of Liverpool season-ticket holders to converted Manchester United supporter and player will surely continue as he fulfils his huge potential.