Lacey caps England Under-20 cameo with stunning solo goal against Italy

Shea Lacey announced himself on the international stage on Friday, scoring a superb solo goal for England Under-20s against Italy to extend his side’s lead to 3-1 after being introduced as a substitute.

The 19-year-old Manchester United winger needed just 10 minutes to make his mark, skipping past his marker — who fell to the floor in the process — before cutting inside from the right and curling the ball into the top-left corner.

Lacey had been called into the England Under-20 squad for the September international break on the back of a promising start to his senior career at United. He joined teammates Harry Amass and Ayden Heaven, who both started the match and played the full 90 minutes for the Three Lions.

The goal continued a momentum-building period for the teenager. He opened the scoring for United against Brighton in the third round of the Carabao Cup, earning a place on the bench for the subsequent 1-1 Premier League draw at Fulham before the international break.

United first-team coach Michael Carrick was effusive in his praise for Lacey following the Brighton goal, highlighting just how natural the finish was for a player he has watched develop at Carrington.

“It was amazing for Shea and his family and everyone at the academy,” Carrick said. “I’ve seen him do that on the pitches outside there quite a few times and that’s his little spot — getting there and turning on his left foot and coming inside. I’m delighted for him.”

Carrick added that the significance of the moment may have been lost in the context of the result, but believed Lacey would appreciate it in time. “When the dust settles and he can have a moment, I think he can be very proud of himself because it was a big moment for him.”

Lacey was permanently promoted to United’s first-team setup in the spring after making his senior debut against Aston Villa in December, going on to make three further senior appearances before the end of last season. Friday’s finish for England will only strengthen his case for more regular involvement under Ruben Amorim.