Who is Tyler Fredricson? Meet the Manchester United academy defender training with first-team

Tyler Fredricson has trained with Manchester United's first-team this week ahead of Thursday's match against Real Sociedad.

Fredricson plays at centre-back and he played a key role in United's memorable FA Youth Cup success last season, although he was unfortunate to miss the final through illness. The 17-year-old had played every game in that FA Youth Cup campaign up to that point and he has been promoted to the Under-21 side this term.

The 17-year-old had to get over the disappointment of missing out with Louis Jackson stepping in alongside Rhys Bennett as his replacement for the final as United beat Nottingham Forest 3-1 to lift the trophy. The defender was the first signing announced at Old Trafford following the appointment of Erik ten Hag as manager, with the youngster penning his first professional contract in May.

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Announcing the news on social media, Fredricson said the deal is "only the beginning" for him at Old Trafford. In an Instagram post, he wrote: "Delighted to sign my first professional contract with @manchesterunited , very proud moment for me and my family. Only the beginning."

Fredricson, who grew up in Manchester, wore the number 89 for the youth team last season although he does not have a first-team number listed on the official Manchester United website for this season. It appears he has already impressed United boss Ten Hag, with the Dutchman calling him up to train with the first-team squad ahead of the Europa League clash with Real Sociedad on Thursday.

Name: Tyler Fredricson

Date of birth: February 23, 2005

Position: Centre-back

Nationality: England

Career history: Fredricson grew up in south Manchester