Phil Jones has heaped praise on Manchester United youngster Shea Lacey, likening him to Manchester City and England superstar Phil Foden.
That’s despite the teenager getting sent off on his Old Trafford debut, as United crashed out of the FA Cup at the hands of Brighton on Sunday.
Former Red Devil Danny Welbeck scored as the Seagulls won the third-round tie 2-1, with Lacey coming off the bench for Mason Mount in the 62nd minute – only his third senior appearance.
The attacking midfielder/right-winger initially had a good impact but was given his marching orders after picking up two yellow cards in as many minutes – the first for a bad foul and the second for throwing the ball away in anger after giving away a free-kick.
The 18-year-old left the pitch in tears but Jones believes the Carrington academy graduate can hold his head up high and has a big future ahead of him.
‘Shea Lacey is going to be a top, top player. He’s got everything,’ the former United defender said on Match of the Day 2.
‘He’s almost got the Phil Foden-esque touch and the way he dribbles. The way he commits players. He’s direct, he only needs half-a-yard to get the ball in.
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‘Like when he came on against Burnley, first thing he does is commits a player and hits the crossbar. His all-round game is very good, every time he gets the ball he looks like he’s going to create something or make something happen.’
Discussing the red card post-match, United interim boss Darren Fletcher was scathing of referee Simon Hooper but Jones believes the official made the right call, though he could have shown leniency.
‘I was devastated for him when he got sent off,’ the 27-cap England international added.
‘The first one is a foul and it’s probably a yellow card, just. I don’t think he can have any complaints.
‘The second one… the letter of the law states it is a second yellow card. I would like to have seen him [Hooper] bide his time a little bit, maybe give him a warning rather than another yellow card. I thought it was harsh.’
Lacey has himself apologised for his conduct, posting on social media: ‘I want to apologise to all of my teammates staff and the fans.
‘I let everybody down tonight. I shouldn’t let my emotions get the better of me I will do everything I can to make this right.’
The red card means he will now be suspended for this Saturday’s Premier League Manchester derby.
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