Wayne Rooney believes Shy Lacey has earned a chance in Manchester United's starting lineup. The former club captain suggested Michael Carrick should field the 19-year-old in place of Amad Diallo.
Lacey came on as a substitute in the 75th minute of the Champions League match against Roma and quickly added sharpness to United's right flank.
His pass helped Matheus Cunha score the winner in the comeback from 0-2 to 3-2.
Rooney was particularly impressed by the move that led to the goal:
Excellent first touch and a magnificent pass, and the finish was just incredible.
If you watch the moment again, you might think: perhaps he should have played it sideways to free a teammate? But for me, the main thing here is Lacey's first touch. It immediately takes the defender out of the game, and then comes the incredible pass.
We have already talked about Amad. He does a lot of good things, but he lacks that final action. That is what takes a player to the next level.
And from the moments I have seen from Lacey when he came on as a substitute, especially this season, it is clear that he has something special.
This little touch and that pass were exactly what United needed to see off the opponent in this match.
Amad has been struggling with his effectiveness recently. In the match against Chelsea, he also failed to convert several good chances, and his last goal for the club dates back to December last year.
During this period, he has managed only two assists across all competitions.
In contrast, Lacey is gradually establishing himself in the first team. In September, he scored his first goal for United in the EFL Cup against Brighton.
Following his vibrant performance against Roma, the competition on the right flank may become a key topic for Carrick ahead of upcoming matches.
