Manchester United have lost against FC Astana 2-1 in the Europa League group stages, in the Astana arena in Kazakhstan.
The Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer played the youngsters side in any European competition the youngsters side they had seven debutantes on Thursday night, six debutantes from the Academy.
“We’re disappointed with the end result but I thought we started the game fantastically. The boys took control of the game, scored a fantastic goal, and the response after they scored two was also good.” Solskjaer said.
“I was disappointed with that little 10-minute spell, you could feel pressure was coming, we couldn’t get on the ball as we did but some fantastic performances by the three young lads who made their debut, all were excellent.” Solskjaer added.
Solskjaer insisted that Brandon Williams and Manson Greenwood have become first-team squad regulars and others are expected to loan out in the winter transfer window.
“Some of them are also knocking on the door for us. You could see the way we dominated midfield, Jimmy [Garner] and Dylan playing together, it’s nice to see midfielders dominating the game.” Solskjaer said.
“Dishon was so composed, Ethan was marauding down the right-hand side, especially in the first-half. So, some of these have done themselves a good favour.
“You could see the crowd enjoyed the game, you could see from the dressing room [Astana] were happy for the win but I felt we played really well. We want to congratulate them for the win and they’ve been a fantastic host as well.” Solskjaer added.
Jesse Lingard scored just his first goal for United in Kazakhstan. He has not been at his best for this season since netting against Arsenal in the FA Cup in January.
United’s 2019/20 Premier League campaign will see them take on Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday. They are currently in 9th position with 17 points in the Premier League standings.
