England Under-20s manager Ben Futcher has heaped praise on Manchester United's rising star, Shea Lacey, following the teenager's impressive goal in a 1-1 draw against Japan.
The match, which took place in Doncaster on Friday, November 15, 2025, saw the 18-year-old Liverpool-born talent make a significant impact after coming off the bench.
International Recognition for a 'Top Player'
Lacey, who is yet to make his senior debut for Manchester United, is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about prospects in English football. His performance for the England U20s has only amplified the excitement.
Futcher was unequivocal in his admiration for the young attacker. 'Shea's a top player,' the manager stated. 'It's been great to work with him. We thought he could have an impact tonight. He's had a really good week – you saw the quality when he came on. Everyone's been impressed with him.'
This international break has been particularly fruitful for Lacey, who also earned the chance to train with Lee Carsley's Under-21s squad, signalling his rapid ascent through the national team ranks.
Lacey's Perspective and Senior Experience
Speaking after the game, Lacey reflected on his performance and the valuable experience of training with elite players. 'I thought it was a good game,' he said. 'Japan are a good team, but we took our chance when we got it and let it slip at the end. I got a chance just before it [the goal], but I thought I took my chance well when I came on.'
On his time with the U21s, Lacey added, 'It's good to join him. Some of the players are top players playing in the top leagues, playing every week. Hopefully you want to get the call-up permanently and stay around. It's good to play with new players and try to click with them.'
This follows another major milestone for the wonderkid; last month, Lacey, along with peers from Manchester City and Chelsea, was invited to train with Thomas Tuchel's senior England men's team ahead of their friendly against Wales.
Futcher believes this exposure is crucial. 'It's a good experience for them,' he explained. 'It is where they want to get to, so they can feel how difficult it is and how good those seniors are. It is good for them to see it, feel it and be part of it.'
Overcoming Adversity on the Path to the Top
Lacey's progression might have been even faster had it not been for significant injury setbacks during his young career. However, he now appears to be firmly on an upward trajectory, with his talent undeniable.
Travis Binnion, Manchester United's Under-21 manager, emphasised the need for patience with the gifted player. 'Listen, everybody in the world knows about Shea Lacey,' Binnion told the Manchester Evening News. 'So he needs a little bit of fortune, he needs to be patient with himself and everybody else needs to be really patient with him.'
He concluded with a telling endorsement: 'Everybody can see – you have to be blind not to see – the talent he's got. He's got lots to do in his game and he knows. We're still managing him physically because if he can stay on the pitch and can train every day, I think everyone thinks he could be a top, top player.'
