Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte suffered a horrific injury against Spain in the third group game of the World Cup.
It has been reported that Ugarte could be out of action for the next 9-12 months.
The club have also confirmed the injury, forcing head coach Michael Carrick to look at the academy to promote youngsters.
Here are three young talents who could emerge as genuine options to fill the number six role at Old Trafford.
Tyler Fletcher
Tyler Fletcher made his senior United debut last season and immediately looked comfortable at the highest level.
He caught the eye with his relentless work rate and ability to cover every blade of grass.
He deservedly won the club’s Denzil Haroun Reserve-Team Player of the Year award for his performances at Under-21 level.
The dream season became even better when he received a late call-up to the Scotland squad for the FIFA World Cup.
Fletcher has played the majority of his young career as a holding midfielder and is set for a big role next campaign.
Jacob Devaney
Jacob Devaney is a classic defensive midfielder who embraces the less glamorous side of the game.
The 19-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at St Mirren to gain valuable senior experience.
He started 12 matches and showcased his composure by completing 91% of his passes.
He also averaged nearly three tackles and six recoveries per game.
While Devaney may not receive the same level of attention as Jim Thwaites or the Fletcher brothers, those inside the club rate him extremely highly.
Jim Thwaites
When discussing United’s brightest midfield prospects, it is impossible to ignore Jim Thwaites.
The 18-year-old has built a reputation as one of the most technically gifted midfielders in the academy.
His composure under pressure and maturity in possession have consistently stood out at youth level.
Thwaites was part of United’s squad for the post-season tour to Asia and featured against ASEAN All-Stars and the Hong Kong national team.
Operating as a deep-lying playmaker, Thwaites possesses the vision to split defensive lines with his passing while dictating the tempo from deeper areas.
Stats from fotmob.com
