Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has encouraged interim manager Michael Carrick to reconsider Amad Diallo's place in the starting lineup and give teenage forward Shea Lacey more regular opportunities after his impressive display against AS Roma, according to Metro on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.

United secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over the Italian side in their Champions League meeting at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, November 3, recovering from a two-goal deficit to claim an important result.

The hosts endured a difficult opening period, struggling to contain Roma's attacking threat and going into the second half needing a significant improvement. However, Carrick's players responded positively after the break, showing determination to overturn the scoreline and end their run without a victory since September 10.

Bruno Fernandes helped United begin their recovery by converting a penalty before Matheus Cunha struck twice to complete the turnaround. His goals secured the comeback and gave the team a much-needed result in front of their supporters.

Although the senior players played important roles in the victory, Lacey's introduction became one of the most discussed moments of the match. The 19-year-old academy graduate entered the contest in the 75th minute and immediately brought greater energy to United's right flank.

His confident ball control, quick movement and ability to make effective decisions created problems for Roma's defence. Rather than simply holding possession, Lacey looked to move the ball forward and contribute to United's attacking play.

The teenager also had a direct influence on the decisive goal. He produced an excellent touch before delivering a precise pass to Cunha, who finished to complete his second goal of the night and secure all three points for the hosts.

Lacey's contribution attracted praise from Rooney, who believes the youngster has shown enough quality to deserve a more prominent role in Carrick's plans. The former United captain specifically highlighted the quality of the teenager's first touch and the pass that created the winning opportunity.

Rooney described the sequence as an excellent piece of play, praising Lacey's control and delivery before acknowledging the quality of Cunha's finish.

The former striker also used the discussion to question Amad's effectiveness in the final third. While recognising that the Ivorian regularly demonstrates positive qualities, Rooney argued that improving his end product is necessary if he wants to become an influential attacking figure for United.

His criticism centred on the difference between producing promising moments and consistently turning those situations into goals or assists. Rooney believes that greater productivity would help Amad reach another level in his development.

Lacey has already provided evidence of his potential this season. The youngster scored his first senior goal for Manchester United with an impressive effort against Brighton in the Carabao Cup in September, adding another encouraging moment to his emerging first-team career.

Amad, meanwhile, has struggled to make a consistent contribution in front of goal, with his previous strike for the club reportedly dating back to December last year.

Following his latest performance, Lacey has strengthened his argument for increased involvement. Rooney's assessment has also placed renewed attention on Carrick's selection decisions, particularly the competition for the right-wing position as United look to maintain their momentum.