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'He plays with a bit of mischief' - Carrick praises Lacey impact
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- 'He plays with a bit of mischief' - Carrick praises Lacey impact
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Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick says he loves Shea Lacey and the youngster has "a bit of mischief" about him.
The 19-year-old has been used sparingly by the Red Devils boss this so far this season, even though he has kept fully across the development of United's academy stars.
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Lacey had only made four substitute appearances and a start against Brighton in the Carabao Cup - scoring his first senior goal - prior to Tuesday night's Champions League comeback against Roma.
Carrick put Lacey on for Amad Diallo 15 minutes from the end, with United still trailing and desperately searching for a way to get back into the game.
The Liverpudlian unsettled the Roma defence by running with the ball, supplied the crucial assist for Matheus Cunha's equaliser and emerged as one of United's inspirations on what turned out to be a night to remember.
"We love him to bits, you know," said Carrick. "He's a great young man; he's got great ability and he's desperate to do well.
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"He's got that little glint in his eye, he plays with a bit of mischief."
Yet it wasn't just Lacey's ability in attack that impressed Carrick.
Last season, Under-21 coach Adam Lawrence made a point of highlighting some of the defensive work the youngster had done.
After Roma, Carrick did the same.
"I was just as happy seeing him defending as a right-back when we needed it," he added. "As a rounded footballer you've got to be able to do that.
"He gave everybody a bit of a lift coming on the pitch. It was fantastic to see, and he made the most of what he had."
