Michael Carrick urges patience after youngsters light up Rosenborg clash

Carrick fielded an experienced-looking starting XI featuring Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Luke Shaw, Andrey Santos and Mason Mount, but it was the younger members of the squad who stole the spotlight.

Joshua Zirkzee, the only scorer over the age of 20 at 25, opened the scoring before 19-year-olds Shea Lacey, Jacob Devaney and Harry Amass all found the net. Ethan Williams also added his name to the scoresheet.

Half-time introductions Jaydan Kamason and Amass proved especially influential. Kamason supplied two assists, while Amass finished with a goal and an assist as the pair combined for four goal involvements.

Eight more youngsters were introduced after the hour, with twins Jack Fletcher and Tyler Fletcher catching the eye in midfield.

Carrick said he was delighted with the academy players' displays but stressed the squad must remain patient, avoid injuries and continue improving fitness and understanding at Carrington.

"That's the best place to be as a footballer, when you're in that zone, and you're confident, and that's my job to try and get the players in that frame of mind," said Carrick.

"The senior players at this stage, are finding their way, but you can see they're in a good place and getting used to having good results over a period of time, which is good.

"And the younger players, when you see them expressing themselves and being themselves and keep pushing themselves to be better, I think some of the play in the second half was really, really good, and I was delighted to see that from them.

"They've all got potential in different ways, and you want them to fulfil it and keep pushing themselves, and they certainly did that."

Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha are all expected back soon, while friendlies against Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Leeds United and AC Milan still lie ahead. 

READ MORE: 'It's a privilege' - Enzo Maresca embraces Pep Guardiola challenge at Man City