Leeds United’s Under-18s were knocked out of the FA Youth Cup by Manchester United at Old Trafford on Wednesday night, but despite the disappointing outcome, there were a number of positives to take from the display.
One of those was the performance of Stuart McKinstry. The 17-year-old, who signed from Motherwell last summer, took to social media to express his disappointment at the fact his side had been knocked out of the tournament – prompting much praise from the Leeds faithful.
You and everyone in the under 18 squad deserve full credit and great support you did the club and the fans proud well done #LUFC #mot
— Reece mumby (@reece_mumby) February 6, 2020
You played brilliant mate, hope you had a good experience and keep up the hard work we’ll be seeing you rise up the ranks I’m sure!
— Matthew Blackburn (@MrB_RE) February 6, 2020
Great effort , top team and you my man …WE ARE WATCHING YOU !!! #starinthemaking MOT
— Mark Eddison (@mkeddie1502) February 6, 2020
It has been great to watch you grow into the U23s this season, Stuart. Keep going! MOT
— Asbjørn Perry Sve (@PerrySve) February 6, 2020
Only tip of the iceberg, Keep yourself grounded, put in the hard yards & you’ll be in the first team in no time.
— Alan Thompson ?? (@thombo1987) February 6, 2020
Baller
— Mark Maguire (@markmaguire03) February 6, 2020
Just a taster pal. Dig in work hard and lets get you in the 1st team one day.
Proud of you all last night ????
— Bielsa’s Cheese Wedge Ultras (@Allcheese1) February 6, 2020
What do we think?
It’s clear from the replies that the fans were extremely proud of the performance from their youngsters, who certainly didn’t disgrace the club. As well as having to play away from home, Leeds were at a disadvantage after Henri Kumwenda was shown a red card after 64 minutes.
A reported 1,400 supporters made the trip to Old Trafford in order to support their Under-18s, further evidence of how much they value their youth.