Manchester United academy notebook: Forgotten youth star returns as Bendito Mantato scores again

The international break also covers academy football, which means Manchester United's youngsters haven't played competitive fixtures over the last few weeks.

The Under-21s were last in action against West Brom on March 18 and they next play against Brighton at Leigh Sports Village on April 8, as the business end of the season approaches.

But there are still plenty of talking points to discuss and the Manchester Evening News will continue to provide the most extensive coverage of United's academy.

So here is a round-up of the latest news from the club's youth set-up, compiled in notebook format.

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Fredricson returns from the sidelines

Tyler Fredricson started every FA Youth Cup game in the run to the 2021/22 final against Nottingham Forest, but unfortunately, he was forced to miss that game through illness.

The young defender's partnership with Rhys Bennett was crucial and he heavily contributed to the Youth Cup success, despite being cruelly denied the chance to lift the trophy.

He signed his first professional contract with United shortly after the final and he was promoted to U21 level in the following season, while also training with the first team.

Erik ten Hag named Fredricson on the bench for United's match against Real Sociedad in September 2022 and he was considered one of the most promising young talents at the club, but he only returned from a 16-month period on the sidelines a few weeks ago.

To be absent for such a significant time made Fredricson's return a huge moment and it's hoped he can strive to reach the potential he was showing throughout an exciting 2022.

United's academy visit