Mauricio Pochettino looks set to become the new manager of Manchester United, and he could already have his next pet project.

Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick on Thursday, November 12th, after a worst-ever start to the Premier League season sees the Red Devils 18th in the table.

Mauricio Pochettino told Shea Lacey could become a ‘monster’ under his coaching

Pochettino is a coach known for developing young talent and making players perform to a level better than they are. At United, he would have the perfect new pet project for this in the form of Shea Lacey.

Appearing on Sky Sports News as the news around United broke, former Southampton striker Charlie Austin spoke about the impact he thinks Pochettino would have on Lacey at United

“Look at Dele Alli with Spurs, Luke Shaw with Southampton. I wouldn’t be surprised if Mauricio Pochettino turns Shea Lacey into a monster, he has a track record of doing it.”

Rio Ferdinand also thinks Lacey will excel with Pochettino, believing the Argentine will trust United’s exciting academy breakout to start games, turning him into a proper first-team player not just given pity minutes, even though he’s proven himself deserving of more.

Pochettino’s record with youth makes him perfect for Manchester United

Pochettino is a massive advocate for youth, often stating that if a player is good enough they will play, whether that means debuts for 16-year-old’s or whoever.

He proved this at Tottenham, giving out 12 debuts to players under the age of 21 during his time managing the club which was more than any other manager in those seasons.

While everywhere he goes, Pochettino has helped mould youngsters into top level players. Harry Kane, Dele Alli, Heung-min Son at Spurs, Cole Palmer at Chelsea and many more at Southampton.

Lacey could be next as he deserves to be starting over Amad and might never look back when he gets the chance. This is just one reason that Pochettino would be an excellent appointment.