Ralf Rangnick's responsible approach to introducing Manchester United's academy stars to the first team should be applauded.
It would have been very easy to throw the likes of Hannibal Mejbri, Alejandro Garnacho and Alvaro Fernandez into the side when times were tough earlier this season at Old Trafford. But, looking at the bigger picture, it could have done more damage than good.
At times this season, the Theatre of Dreams has more closely resembled one of nightmares. United's performances on the pitch have struggled to reach anywhere near the heights that were expected back in August and the mood around the ground has soured on occasion.
ALSO READ: Manchester United might have to copy Alexis Sanchez plan to get tough with Anthony Martial
Rangnick himself has hinted at this when asked about giving younger players game time this season. "It’s always about playing the strongest available team because they are not friendly games and I don’t think we would do some of the youngsters a favour if we bring them in at the wrong moment," he explained back in April.
"I love to play young players but in a moment when the team is performing well and playing with confidence. Then it could be the right moment to give young players game-time, but not in a situation like we’re in right now."
This is an admirable approach by the interim boss but his 'friendly' excuse no longer holds any weight. With nine points available for United this season, they sit eight behind fourth-placed Arsenal after the Gunners' victory at West Ham. Mikel Arteta's side also have a game in hand over United too. Let's face, it the Champions League dream is now dead.
With all due respect given to the Europa League and the Europa Conference League, would any United fans lose any sleep if their team is competing in one instead of the other? It's extremely doubtful.
So what remains are three dead rubbers to finish the campaign, a damning indictment of how far United have slumped. So why not give the supporters who travel up and down the country supporting United a glimpse into the future?
Erik ten Hag is no stranger to giving academy players the opportunity to thrive and it would make his job marginally easier if some of the talent in the squad were given some minutes. Logistically, there could be an issue regarding the involvement of Garnacho, Hannibal and Alvaro Fernandez against Brentford with them all having featured for the U23s on Sunday.
However, it is not as if there is no precedent for academy players featuring in two games close together before. Across Manchester in October, Cole Palmer played in two matches in under two hours for City's senior team and U23s.
A 20-minute cameo on Monday evening for the United youngsters would be a just reward for their impressive displays for the academy. Rangnick's wait for the right moment has come and it is time for the next generation to show what they can do.
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
