Ex-United star slams Amorim for snubbing player with “a freshness and a rawness about him” in loss to Everton

Former Manchester United star John O’Shea has hit out at Ruben Amorim for his decision to snub Shea Lacey, indicating that the youngster could have potentially provided a spark during Monday’s loss to Everton. Lacey named in matchday squad United’s five-game unbeaten streak came to an end earlier this week as they were beaten by Everton, who played most of the match while reduced to 10 men. Idrissa Gueye was sent off inside 14 minutes after striking his teammate, Michael Keane, during a heated confrontation. United failed to capitalise on their numerical advantage and allowed the Toffees to break the deadlock at the half-hour mark, courtesy of Kieran Dewsbury-Hall. A timid United could not break down Everton as they held on for all three points. One of the rare positives from the evening was Lacey finally receiving a call-up to the matchday squad. Undoubtedly among the brightest talents emerging out of Carrington, Lacey has been knocking on the first-team door for months now. Amorim is known to be an avid admirer of the tricky 18-year-old, who has often drawn comparisons to Manchester City’s Phil Foden. Lacey signed his first professional contract with United last April. Speaking on talkSPORT, O’Shea revealed that the youngster’s “rawness” and unpredictability could have just been the thing United needed to get a result against David Moyes’ men. O’Shea says Amorim missed an opportunity The former United man remarked, “Listen, he could have brought one of the centre-backs off and put on another, dropped one of the midfielders back in and sort of give young Shea Lacey a go at it.” “I know it wouldn’t have been an ideal scenario to bring a young kid onto the pitch like that.” “But at least he would have had a freshness and a rawness about him that he might have been able to create something because that’s what the kid is all about.” United are next in action on Sunday when they face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!