Forgotten Man Utd defender pictured training with the first team, he's not played since 2019

Forgotten Man United defender Di'Shon Bernard has been pictured in training with the first team ahead of their Carabao Cup third round fixture against Aston Villa - three years after he played his last game for the senior side.

United are preparing to face Unai Emery's Villa for the second time in four days, having lost 3-1 to the Villans at Villa Park in Premier League action on Sunday.

Erik ten Hag's side will hope for a stronger result this time around, as they look to take back a trophy they last won under Jose Mourinho in 2017.

And with a crunch Premier League fixture against Fulham on Sunday - United's last before the World Cup break - it appears that some rotation may be in order for Thursday's cup clash, with some younger players given an opportunity to impress.

Di'Shon Bernard in first team training

Di'Shon Bernard has been pictured in training, with the youngster having not played for the Red Devils since November 2019.

He was named in the team that took on Astana in the Europa League group stage, with then-United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer opting to name a youthful side.

Now 22, Bernard has had loan spells at Hull and Salford, making 26 appearances for the former in the Championship last season.

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He is now back with United, but has not made the matchday squad so far this term.

Unlike some other young Red Devils players, Bernard is not in the B list squad for the Europa League this term. He narrowly misses out on the age group criteria, which states players must have been born on January 1, 2001 or later to be included. Bernard was born on October 14, 2000.

Primarily a centre-back, the 22-year-old, who was brought in from Chelsea, can also play at right-back. With that versatility in mind, he could be given a surprise appearance by Ten Hag as the Red Devils look to get back to winning ways.

In addition, youngsters Shola Shoretire and Noam Emeran have been training with the senior squad, and could also earn spots in the matchday squad.

Topics: Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Carabao Cup, Aston Villa

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.