United Women Under-21s excited for cup final

The showpiece match, which kicks off at 18:00 GMT at St George’s Park, is a reward for the young Reds' victories over Liverpool, Chelsea and most recently Aston Villa in previous rounds.

Unfortunately, fans will not be able to attend the game but free live coverage will be available online in the UK via The FA Player.

Under-21s head coach Charlotte Healy has shared insight into how her squad are feeling ahead of the big game. The group includes 14 graduates from United’s Regional Talent Club who have already played a part in the journey to the final.

“They’re obviously really excited, it’s a cup final,” explained Healy.

“A lot of them have been here a long time. Some of them have been here more than 10 years so to represent Manchester United in a cup final is something that they’re really proud of. 

“We’ve had two seasons heavily disrupted by Covid-19, so we’ve not had a league campaign or a cup campaign. So, it’s really exciting for them to play for something towards the end of the season.”

While the final will be a learning experience regardless of the result, Healy explains that competitive games of this nature are also key to the development of a winning mentality among young players.

“It’s certainly part of their journey where they have to experience winning games and learn what it takes to win games,” the coach continued.

“The next stage for them when they graduate from our Academy is to play Super League football or Championship football. 95 per cent of our players are either youth internationals or senior internationals, so absolutely winning is important and they have to learn how to do it. 

“Whilst we don’t measure the success of our Academy on winning trophies, as individuals, it’s a hugely important part of their journey.

“It’s an experience where they might feel a bit of pressure, [there will be] a crowd in and the opportunity of winning a cup so yeah it’s really important for them.”

GOOD LUCK, REDS!

United Women's manager Marc Skinner and captain Katie Zelem have wished the young Reds all the best ahead of the match, as you can see in the video above.

Skinner, who invited Healy's group to train with his senior squad during the recent international break, said: “I’m so looking forward to watching the final and being there as a supporter. I’m going to have every bit of cheering energy behind this team and give them all the love that they deserve."

Be sure to keep an eye out on ManUtd.com and in the United App for a match report when the final ends at St George's Park. Good luck to all our players and staff involved.