Erik ten Hag explains why Omari Forson starts for Manchester United vs Fulham

Erik ten Hag has given Omari Forson his full debut for Manchester United against Fulham because the youngster has impressed and made an impact from the bench in recent appearances.

Forson was brought to the United States for last summer's pre-season tour and he was subsequently promoted to the first-team squad for this season.

The winger has made just a handful of appearances for the Under-21s due to his involvement with the senior side and he was handed his debut against Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup last month, coming on from the bench at the DW Stadium to replace Marcus Rashford in added time.

EXCLUSIVE: Mainoo focusing on United amid England interest

ALSO READ: Ratcliffe opens up on Mason Greenwood's future

Forson also made substitute appearances against Newport County and Wolves, but he's been given the opportunity to make his first start for the club on Saturday afternoon.

Rasmus Hojlund was ruled out of the match due to a muscular injury on Friday and Forson has been the beneficiary of his absence.

The 19-year-old is set to feature alongside Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho in attack while Victor Lindelof replaces the injured Luke Shaw in the only other change.

Ten Hag spoke to MUTV and he was asked why Forson starts. He said: "Because he deserves the position. Lately, he's performing very well, over the last half year he's worked very hard, showed his progression.

"And when he came on against Wolves and Newport he had some impact, for instance with the goal for Kobbie Mainoo, he had the link up and good run behind. That's what we expect from him. He showed reliability and now he gets his chance, so he has to take his chance.

"They [the attackers] have to stay and occupy certain spaces but they can