JJ Gabriel could make Manchester United debut against Wrexham or Rosenborg in July

JJ Gabriel could make Manchester United debut against Wrexham or Rosenborg in July

Manchester United academy starlet JJ Gabriel is likely to be included in the Red Devils’ pre-season tour squad due to a shortage of senior players because of the World Cup, according to Samuel Luckhurst. The teenage sensation has been training regularly with the Man United first-team in recent months but is currently ineligible to play in the Premier League this season. Gabriel was still 14 years old when the current campaign started and could not be registered as a result.

The 15-year-old was eligible to feature in the FA Cup but was not included in any of their matchdays before Brighton & Hove Albion dumped them out of the competition in January. However, he could now make his senior debut during the pre-season, with the friendly against Wrexham on July 18 or against Rosenborg on July 24 potential dates for his first first-team appearance. Gabriel won the Premier League under-18 Player of the Year award last night after a return of 26 goals in 28 appearances this season.

He is preparing for the FA Youth Cup against Manchester City tomorrow and will hope to crown the campaign with silverware. Man United have a big talent on their hands and they are desperate to hold on to him given interest from suitors. Barcelona and other bigwigs continue to monitor the England under-17 international as he has yet to sign his professional contract.