Man United fans joke at their failings in front of goal as Tom Huddlestone makes eye-catching cameo

Tom Huddlestone rolled back the years on Tuesday night as he laid on an injury time assist for Manchester United under-21s against Fleetwood in the EFL Trophy.

The midfielder, who racked up more than 550 appearances in a 19-year playing career that included time at Tottenham and two spells each at Derby County and Hull City, joined United as a player-coach for the under-21 side in the summer.  

The move was made so that Huddlestone can use his vast experience to help mentor United’s youngsters as they look to develop into first-team players.

United used a similar initiative last season when they brought in defender Paul McShane, who has since been promoted to full-time player development phase coach.

Tom Huddlestone joined Manchester United’s under-21 side as a player-coach in the summer

The midfielder (L) enjoyed a successful playing career at clubs like Tottenham and Hull

Liverpool have taken similar steps this season by bringing back Jay Spearing to work with their young reserves. McShane knew Huddlestone from their time together at Hull and knew he had a desire to get into coaching.  

The involvement of former England international Huddlestone is seen as vital by academy manager Nick Cox, who wants the younger United stars to tap into the midfielder’s experience as they take their next steps.

And during Tuesday’s game against Fleetwood, Huddlestone was introduced midway through the second half, before he assisted Shola Shoretire’s injury-time equaliser in a 2-2 draw.

Huddlestone  laid on a superb assist for Shola Shoretire in United’s 2-2 draw with Fleetwood

It was the midfielder’s third invovlement in the EFL Trophy this season, with Huddlestone also coming off the bench during 2-1 victories over Carlisle United and Barrow as the Red Devils topped their group to secure qualification for the knockout stages.

Fans were quick to marvel at the impact of Huddlestone and praised his quality after the game.

One said: ‘Shola Shoretire is a class little player I’ve said it for time now, what a finish that was and a Tom Huddlestone assist.’

Fans were quick to praise Huddlestone but also mocked United’s lack of creativity elsewhere

Another added: ‘Tom Huddlestone is really balling out for the 21s lmaoooooo.’

Other fans were quick to joke about the impact of a 35-year-old playing for the under-21 side and the lack of creativity in the United senior team.

One user quipped: ‘Tom Huddlestone should get a spot in the first team soon? Fantastic talent.’

A further fan joked: ‘Viva Tom Huddlestone. Bright future awaits. Why hasn’t ETH seen this yet??’

Another explained: ‘Come for the great finish… …stay to laugh at the size difference between Tom Huddlestone and the rest of them.’

A fourth user said: ‘Frightening that Tom Huddlestone is our most creative midfielder #MUFC.’