Overview
- The manager confirmed the highly rated winger has earned a first-team chance after recent sessions with the senior squad.
- Lacey has been an unused substitute in the last two Premier League matches against Everton and Crystal Palace.
- Amorim detailed his method for promoting academy players, stressing work on physicality, pressing speed and decision-making beyond Under-21 level.
- Matheus Cunha returns to the squad, while Benjamin Sesko and Harry Maguire are out and two unnamed players are doubtful for Thursday.
- Opportunities for youth are constrained by the lack of European and Carabao Cup fixtures, with AFCON departures for Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo likely to create openings soon.