Image Credits: Getty Images
An exciting prospect from the United academy has put pen to paper and signed his first professional contract after a successful season for the under-18s team.
Manchester Evening News have reported that James Scanlon, who’s already made two caps for Gibraltar, has joined the ranks of the senior team.
Having been a key part of the under-18s treble winning season, the 17-year-old has scored an impressive eight goals with three assists in 12 appearances for the team.
The versatile youngster has been used across the pitch in central attacking midfield and on both wings, making him a great asset to the squad.
Although born in the Midlands, FIFA’s eligibility rules have allowed for Scanlon to switch professional nationality from England to Gibraltar who he’s eligible to play for through his mother.
The rules state that a player can change national team providing they have not played more that three competitive senior matches before turning 21, meaning that Scanlon could still revert to play for England if he wishes.
Scanlon is the latest academy member to graduate to the senior squad following Harry Amass, Jack and Tyler Fletcher and Shea Lacey signing professional contracts.
