Man United starlet in bizarre lock-out, Michael Carrick guilty of ignoring him

Shea Lacey has not appeared on the pitch in a Manchester United shirt for a single minute since scoring against Brighton in the Carabao Cup.

The 19-year-old netted the opener against the Seagulls in September and enjoyed a superb first senior start, although the Red Devils would go on to lose.

Michael Carrick's side have not won any of the four games across all competitions since, drawing 1-1 with Leeds United on Sunday, but the winger continues to be left out.

Lacey may well have a chance to play when Man United visit Como in the Champions League on Wednesday, with the manager desperately needing to make changes.

Carrick has chopped and changed in midfield and attack, deploying various partnerships in the hopes that he will stumble upon a winning combination.

Yet Lacey remains unused and frustrated, watching on as those in front of him continuously fail to leave an impression.

Michael Carrick ignoring the Shea Lacey stats

Against Brighton, currently one of the most in-form and exciting teams in the country, Lacey demonstrated his readiness for first team football.

The winger took his chance when it came, finishing superbly into the bottom corner to give Man United the lead.

But there was so much more to his game, too, and certainly enough to suggest that he could contribute in Carrick's predicament.

Lacey attempted five dribbles in his 66 minutes on the pitch - more than anybody on the pitch - and completed two.

The teenager also attempted two crosses and won two free-kicks, with Brighton struggling to deal with him.

Lacey showed his maturity with several defensive contributions, too. He made three tackles, a clearance, an interception and three recoveries.

Just two players on the pitch won more duels than the forward, who emerged with the ball in seven of the 10 he contested.

Carrick causing damage at Man United

Lacey is under contract until 2029 but before long, he will grow frustrated and push for a move away if things continue as they are.

And he will not be the only one. Carrick is currently sending a message to the academy that says: 'Even if you take your opportunities, you are not a part of the first team'.

Of course, the Englishman is battling a crisis and hopes his senior players will help him solve it, but he must soon realise that he must look elsewhere.

Man United have been bailed out by their academy before, and Carrick must allow it to happen once more.