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Thwaites thrilled with first-team call
Manchester United youngsters Jim Thwaites and Dan Armer are relishing an exciting end to the 2025/26 campaign.
Thwaites was still buzzing after a maiden place in a senior matchday squad for the Premier League win at Chelsea, when we caught up with him at Carrington for the interview.
The talented midfielder was joined by team-mate Dan Armer to preview Wednesday's Under-18 Premier League Cup final against Crystal Palace, which is being shown live on MUTV in the UK and Ireland.
With Darren Fletcher's side also through to the FA Youth Cup final against Manchester City, following last Friday's triumph over Palace at Old Trafford, morale is high within the camp.
Young Reds' eyes on the prize
Dan Armer and Jim Thwaites talk about the Under-18s' bid for silverware...
Thwaites was influential during the extra-time success against the Eagles at Old Trafford, before heading south to link up with the senior squad for the Stamford Bridge encounter.
The unused substitute certainly enjoyed the experience of being part of the memorable occasion, as he continues to pursue his own personal goals.
"Obviously, I was over the moon and it's another good moment for me and another good experience," the midfielder told MUTV's Mark Sullivan.
"I just tried to take it all in on the night. Yeah, I was just over the moon and looked forward to it. It was a massive, massive three points and really good to get the win over the line. The scenes in the dressing room were unbelievable, so it was good."
In terms of Wednesday's outing at Selhurst Park, it is another valuable part of the education process for Fletcher's enterprising side.
"Old Trafford's the best stadium in the world so it's another chance to experience another Premier League stadium," added Thwaites. "We're looking forward to it, it's going to be good."
Skipper Armer delights in his role at the back and is also making great strides with his progress.
"It's an honour to captain the Under-18 side at such a big club," said the central defender. "Hopefully, I can go and lift the trophy with them as well.
"I do quite like trying to be a leader and trying to give everyone bits of information and be like loud, organised and things like that.
"So, yeah, I think the added responsibility definitely helps."
Watch Palace v United in the Under-18 Premier League Cup final on Wednesday live on MUTV, kick-off at 19:00 BST.