According to a report by Evening Standard on Thursday November 5, 2026, Manchester United youngster Shea Lacey is reportedly set to make his first full Premier League start against Aston Villa after impressing manager Michael Carrick during the club's Champions League victory over Roma.

According to reports, Carrick is prepared to reward the 19-year-old winger with a place in the starting lineup following his impressive contribution in United's 3-2 comeback win on Tuesday night.

Lacey came on as a second-half substitute for Amad Diallo at Old Trafford and provided the assist for Matheus Cunha's winning goal.

His contribution helped Manchester United end their nine-game winless run across all competitions and provided Carrick with some relief amid growing pressure over his position as head coach.

The youngster's performance has reportedly convinced Carrick to give him a bigger opportunity as Manchester United prepare for their Premier League meeting with Aston Villa on Sunday.

Speaking after the victory against Roma, Carrick expressed his admiration for Lacey's talent and attitude, describing him as a player with plenty of potential.

"We love him to bits, you know. He's a great young man; he's got great ability and he's desperate to do well," Carrick said.

The United manager also praised the teenager's confidence and the unpredictability he brings to the team's attacking play.

"He's got that little glint in his eye, he plays with a bit of mischief," he added.

Lacey has so far made five Premier League appearances for Manchester United, including two this season, but all of them have come from the substitutes' bench.

The teenager previously got an opportunity to make his first senior start for the club during their Carabao Cup third-round meeting with Brighton in September.

He made an immediate impression by scoring the opening goal just eight minutes into the encounter.

However, Manchester United eventually suffered elimination from the competition, meaning Lacey had to continue waiting for another opportunity to start.

That wait could finally come to an end against Aston Villa, with Carrick reportedly considering the youngster as a replacement for Amad on the right side of United's attack.

A starting appearance would represent another important milestone in Lacey's development as he looks to establish himself in Manchester United's senior team.

The Red Devils will be hoping to build on their comeback victory over Roma by securing another important result against Aston Villa.