Two Manchester United academy players promoted to first-team training ahead of Aston Villa fixture

Manchester United youngsters Ethan Williams and James Nolan have been promoted by Erik ten Hag to train with the first team ahead of tomorrow's Carabao Cup tie with Aston Villa.

The pair haven't been seen training with the United first-team squad before however it would appear that both teenagers, who are members of the Reds' U18s, have been given their chance to impress.

Williams has enjoyed a great start to the season in front of goal in the U18s Premier League. The 16-year-old winger has three goals and an assist to his name so far this campaign with the U18s and was on the scoresheet in the academy's last league fixture against Newcastle United.

Meanwhile, 17-year-old right back Nolan has been a regular feature in the U18s this season. Nolan has been a permanent member of United's academy line-ups so far this campaign and has earned plaudits for his performances.

This is not the first time that Ten Hag has introduced young players to United training. Both Williams and Nolan will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of Alejandro Garnacho who was introduced into the Reds' first-team training before scoring against Real Sociedad in the Europa League.

Ten Hag may have dropped some hints regarding his team selection for tomorrow night's clash with Villa in training. The likes of Harry Maguire, Tyrell Malacia, Anthony Martial and Donny van de Beek were all involved prominently, perhaps suggesting they will feature on Thursday night.

Alongside them were regulars Lisandro Martinez, Marcus Rashford and Sunday's captain Cristiano Ronaldo who also appeared at Carrington today.