Cameron Borthwick-Jackson: 18-year-old makes just second appearance for Manchester United
Louis van Gaal was forced to use youngster alongside inexperienced Guillermo Varela
Louis van Gaal called upon two full-backs for Tuesday's crucial Champions League game that between them had a total of two appearances for Manchester United prior to the tie with Wolfsburg.
The Dutch manager made a surprise call by naming Guillermo Varela in the line-up. The 22-year-old signed by David Moyes in 2013 only made his debut at the weekend but was placed into the starting XI for the injury ravaged Manchester United side.
The inclusion of Varela looked to be backfiring when after taking an early lead through Anthony Martial Manchester United were carved open twice before trailing 2-1 at half-time.
But before the first 45 minutes were over, Van Gaal was forced to call upon another youngster with just one Manchester United appearance to his name. Italy international Matteo Darmian, who was playing at left-back, was forced of with injury which led to the introduction of Cameron Borthwick-Jackson.
18-year-old Borthwick-Jackson made his debut for the Red Devils earlier in the season when he played 14 minutes in the Premier League game against West Brom in November. The defender is a product of the youth system at Manchester United.
Van Gaal had more experienced players Ashley Young and Michael Carrick on the bench, who whilst both midfield players, have been called upon to play in defence in the past.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies