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Manchester United youngster Ashley Fletcher is the latest starlet giving Louis van Gaal cause for optimism following the rise of Axel Tuanzebe and Cameron Borthwick-Jackson.

The 20-year-old scored just 10 minutes after coming on as a substitute in his debut for England’s under 20s on Wednesday.

The rangy striker, who has so impressed coaches at United for his goal-scoring exploits throughout the club’s age groups, was only called up by the national squad after Birmingham’s Demarai Gray was promoted to the U21s.

Keith Downing’s side lost 4-3 - but Fletcher’s contribution was a highlight and typical of the form he’s shown as he’s risen through United’s academy.

Van Gaal has already proven he will give youth a chance - including last season’s youth player of the year Tuanzebe in his squad for the recent Premier League game against Crystal Palace.

And 18-year-old Cameron Borthwick-Jackson was handed his first team debut in last week’s 2-0 win against West Brom.

Last season academy graduates Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett were promoted by Van Gaal, while Jesse Lingard is currently flourishing.

Fletcher, from Keighly, forced his way into United’s U21s towards the end of last season and his goal for his country will have come as little surprise to those who have watched him develop.

Phil Jones identified his potential after playing alongside him for the U21s.

“I think Fletcher has come on a lot up front and I think he’s a good player. I like him.”

Fletcher has proved prolific at every level he’s played.

While he is still developing - with heading being one area coaches are hoping to improve - within United there is plenty of confidence in his ability.

On the club’s own website, they describe him as “capable of leading the line and ruffling defenders’ feathers,” adding that Fletcher “may look like an angular target man, but he has a neat touch and lots more to his game.”

This week his former teacher at Canon Slade School in Bolton spoke his promise.

Craig Robinson told the Bolton News: “He always had a fantastic attitude and worked hard.

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“If anybody deserves to get rewards then it is him.

“He has been scoring goals for Manchester United U21s and this could be a big break.

“He did all of the different sports in school and tried to be the best at everything. It is important that he gets first-team football in the future whether he decides to go to a Championship club or just stay at Manchester United, it is up to him and the coaches.”