Overview
- Manchester United’s Under-18s will host Peterborough United in the FA Youth Cup third round at Old Trafford on December 9 with a 7pm kick-off.
- The staging at Old Trafford opens the door for a potential debut at the stadium for 15-year-old forward Kai Rooney, who is part of Darren Fletcher’s squad.
- Rooney has been sidelined since September with a foot injury, has returned to work on grass, and remains a fitness doubt after only two brief appearances this season, including a goal against Middlesbrough.
- Coverage describes the venue decision as a U-turn after last season’s Youth Cup tie was moved to Leigh Sports Village for reported cost-cutting under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos.
- Reports note Wayne Rooney generally does not attend his son’s matches because his presence attracts crowds, though he continues to coach Kai at home.