According to The Evening Standard, Ashley Young “expects to be released” by Manchester United come the end of the current campaign.

What’s the word?

The veteran has been with the club since joining from Aston Villa for a reported £17m back in 2011, and has made an impressive 258 appearances across all competitions, scoring 19 times and providing 43 assists.

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But with his contract expiring in the coming summer, The Evening Standard have claimed the 34-year-old is yet to open talks with the Red Devils over a possible extension. The report adds that Young’s first-team opportunities are set to be even more limited by the likes of Brandon Williams, Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and that he “privately accepts” he will have to move on.

Priceless experience

In his time at United, Young hasn’t exactly been the most popular player on the block. The former Aston Villa man was even booed on the club’s pre-season tour in the summer, and the fact he has to spend a lot of time in recent seasons out-of-position at full-back has been a major factor in his struggles.

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But one thing that cannot be under-estimated is his value off-the-pitch. After Antonio Valencia’s departure at the end of last season, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer named Young as his club captain. And speaking in July after he was jeered in a friendly clash with Inter, the Norwegian said: “I think Ashley is a top professional. He always gives absolutely everything and his delivery today ended up with a goal. We want our fans to support our players and Ash has been a very loyal servant to this club for many years and he will keep on performing when he plays.”

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So whilst he may be a scapegoat and target for criticism from fans, Young’s professionalism and work ethic is something that will certainly be appreciated by those in the inner circles of United, both by the players and the coaching staff. As Solskjaer looks to build on this youth revolution at Old Trafford, keeping players like the 34-year-old is vital to ensuring the starlets have role models to look up to. Losing the ex-Villa ace would be a short-sighted mistake.

Meanwhile, Manchester United fans have hammered this star after his disappointing display against Everton.