Zidane Iqbal has sent Manchester United a timely reminder

It felt like a huge season for Zidane Iqbal, but in reality it has transpired to be one of frustration.

The 19-year-old made headlines when he impressed in pre-season last summer, but has not made a competitive appearance since his United debut against Young Boys in the Champions League group stage in December 2021.

Iqbal has not managed a single second of first-team football all season but has been an unused sub in 14 senior matchday squads under Erik ten Hag.

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His frustrations have been exacerbated by the rapid rise of fellow academy youngster Kobbie Mainoo, who has surpassed him in the pecking order and appears to be a better fit for the first team than his teammate.

It is even harder to take at a time when United have been experiencing an obvious midfield shortage, yet have appeared reluctant to give any of their young talents a proper chance to fix it.

Of course, that is easier said than done. The pressure and expectations have been so high this season that Ten Hag has been reluctant to rotate his squad with senior players, never mind adding youngsters into the mix.

While there is a train of thought that some academy hopefuls could prosper in such an environment, the harsh reality is that many could suffer from being thrown into the squad when they would be better suited to gradual involvement.

His frustration also stems from United's reluctance to send him out on loan, instead keeping him around for their own needs, just in case he is needed. Yet, even when the midfield department has been so light, he has still been overlooked.

Iqbal was eager to leave on loan in the January transfer window, but despite plenty of interest, he was kept at the club, with the