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Nick Powell is set to quit Manchester United - after growing disillusioned with football, writes Steve Bates in the Sunday People.

The former England Under-21 starlet has shown little appetite for the game and is running down his contract at Old Trafford.

Powell, 22, was signed from Crewe Alexandra in a £4m deal three years ago.

His progress stalled because of a serious knee injury but the playmaker’s attitude has not improved since a loan spell was cut short at Leicester City ten months ago with fingers pointed at the youngster's attitude and commitment to training.

(Image: Plumb Images)

Powell was sent out on loan by United boss Louis van Gaal on deadline day in September last year after appearing in United’s shock 4-0 Capital One Cup defeat at MK Dons.

Powell played three times under former Foxes boss Nigel Pearson and appeared in four Under-21 games for Leicester before they pulled the plug in January this year just three months into the agreement.

At the time, Pearson was understood to be disappointed at Powell’s time keeping and felt the player lacked the hunger and desire he was looking for as the club fought to stay in the Premier League.

(Image: John Peters)

And since his return to United his fortunes have not improved with Van Gaal not convinced Powell has the motivation he is looking for.

Powell had a successful season on loan at Wigan during 2013-14 but the early promise that prompted United to splash the cash on the youngster, after he scored a spectacular Wembley screamer in the 2012 League Two play-off final, has never materialised.

The youngster has only made seven appearances for United in his three years at the club and he’ll be allowed to leave next year.