Manchester United are looking to bed in their promising academy players this season, while attempting to build successful campaigns in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.

Their domestic endeavours have been exceptionally poor, with the club recording its worst start in 40 years.

Michael Carrick, a champion of youth development, has had little opportunity to bed in the likes of Shea Lacey, who did score in an only start in the Carabao Cup against Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Red Devils boss is under pressure to deliver, which could be behind the lack of opportunity in recent weeks for Lacey.

One prospect who could look to follow a similar path in the coming years is Kai Rooney – son of Manchester United and England legend Wayne.

On Friday night, Rooney was handed his Manchester United Under-21’s debut, coming off the bench in the 76th minute of a frustrating encounter against Nottingham Forest.

The son of the Red Devils hero was unable to aid his side towards retribution, as they lost the encounter 3-2.

However, Rooney has already been handed another chance under 24 hours later.

This time in the Under-18 Premier League.

Kai Rooney started the match, scoring United’s opener for his first league goal of the season in the 13th minute.

Manchester United’s official website reported on the goal, describing, “Applying pressure on the Forest rearguard earned United an early reward when Ziro closed down goalkeeper Alastair Graham and Rooney, who initially latched onto the loose ball, was on hand to slide home.”

Seven minutes later, Rooney had the ball in the Forest net once again, but the assistant’s flag had already been raised for offside.

After playing the night before, Rooney’s game was over in minute 66, as youngster Douka Abdoulaye replaced him.

The Red Devils prospect can certainly sit back and rest for the weekend after a proactive 24 hours now, and surely senior figures will have taken notice of his efforts.