United kids need more time, admits Mourinho
LONDON: Jose Mourinho admits Manchester United’s youngsters are not ready for their sudden introduction to the Premier League against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Mourinho intends to play a weakened side against Palace in a bid to keep his senior stars fit and fresh ahead of the Europa League final against Ajax in Stockholm next Wednesday.
With United unable to finish in the Premier League’s top four, Mourinho is banking on winning the Europa League to seal a place in next season’s Champions League.
That means Joel Pereira, Kieran O’Hara, Demetri Mitchell, Scott McTominay, Josh Harrop, Matthew Willock, Zachary Dearnley and 16-year-old midfielder Angel Gomes will all be involved at Old Trafford this weekend.
Asked if the young players were ready, the United manager said: “All together? No.
“I think one in the middle of a good structure, a dynamic structure, an experienced structure, I think, yes. I think lots of them together, no.”
Mourinho confirmed 19-yearold defenders Tim Fosu-Mensah, back after a shoulder injury, and Axel Tuanzebe would also play on Sunday.
“The only positive is to save my players to give them better conditions for Wednesday,” Mourinho said.
“Of course individually for the kids, I think it will be a great experience: Old Trafford, Premier League, Crystal Palace, last match of the season.
“I think for the kids it will be a big occasion, it will always be good experience for them.” — AFP