Manchester United starlet Shola Shoretire is set to miss the Papa John's Trophy final at Wembley due to what has been described as a 'nonsensical' rule.
Shoretire, who made his Premier League debut for United aged 17 in 2021, is currently on loan at Bolton Wanderers, who play in League One.
He has played 12 games for the club since joining in January, and has impressed as the replacement for former West Ham youngster Dafo Apolayan, who joined German side St Pauli.
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The 19-year-old was ineligible to face Accrington in the Papa John's Trophy semi-final, which Bolton won 2-0. The competition is played between teams from League One and League Two, as well as a select number of U21 teams from higher divisions.
The Trotters, managed by former Blackpool defender Ian Evatt, will face Plymouth in the final, which takes place on April 2.
But due to an EFL rule, Shoretire will not be able to play in the match.
Man Utd starlet out of Wembley final
Shoretire is cup-tied for the final, having played for United's U21 side earlier in the competition - a rule described as 'archaic' and 'nonsensical' by the Manchester Evening News.
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The 19-year-old has played three games in the competition, including in the 4-0 defeat to Bolton at the play-off stage. Other names that have played in the competition for United's age group side this term include Facundo Pellistri, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
But the rule has been met with some controversy, with the initial decision to allow U21 sides to play in the Trophy - a decision heavily criticised by fans - justified by allowing increased opportunities for young player development.
Shoretire's absence from the final will come as a blow to Evatt's side, who won the competition for the only time in their history in the 1988/89 season.
Topics: Manchester United, Shola Shoretire, Premier League, League One, Bolton Wanderers
Ryan Smart