Ten Hag calls up two starlets to Man Utd training, could unleash them vs Burnley

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has called up a further two young stars to the first team ahead of the Carabao Cup clash against Burnley.

United return to competitive action after the World Cup against the Clarets, who are managed by Manchester City legend Vincent Kompany.

It could prove to be a tricky test for Ten Hag's side, with Burnley currently top of the Championship.

United will be without a number of first team stars for the December 21 fixture, with Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez involved in the World Cup final three days earlier.

The likes of Harry Maguire, Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro may not be risked following their progression to the latter stages of the World Cup, whilst Jadon Sancho is also expected to be absent after a spell training away from the squad.

Much like in previous cup matches, therefore, Ten Hag has elected to call up a number of younger players to fill the squad.

Alejandro Garnacho began his season competing for game time in the Europa League, with his performances leading to a more regular role in all competitions for United.

Charlie McNeill also featured in the Europa League, whilst the likes of Di'Shon Bernard, Shola Shoretire and Tyler Fredricsson have all trained with the senior squad ahead of cup matches.

Now, Ten Hag could potentially give an opportunity to two more starlets against Burnley.

Man Utd call up two youngsters to senior squad

Manchester Evening News report that midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and centre-back Rhys Bennett both trained with the first team during this week, instead of playing for the U21s.

Mainoo is 17 years old, and travelled with United to their training camp in Spain this month. He played 45 minutes in both friendlies against Cadiz and Real Betis, scoring a goal in the opening game.

Bennett, 19, meanwhile, has featured regularly alongside his team-mate at U21 level this term, with both players winning the U18 Youth Cup last season.

The MEN add that Mainoo is considered the 'leading light' of his age group by coaches at the club. If either player does feature against Burnley, they would be making their senior competitive debuts.