Lincoln City sporting director: Man United youngster Wheatley is a great player, we value his qualities

According to the Manchester Evening News, Lincoln City sporting director Jez George praised Manchester United forward Ethan Wheatley as an “elite player.”

During this summer’s transfer window, Manchester United once again approved Wheatley’s departure on loan. Wheatley has joined Lincoln City on a season-long loan.

The 20-year-old Wheatley has now gone out on loan for the fourth time since making his Premier League debut two years ago, playing across three different levels of the English Football League. In January last year, he first joined League Two side Walsall on loan, making four appearances in total.

Last season, Wheatley played for League One clubs Northampton Town and Bradford City. Manchester United first recalled him before sending him back out on loan to Bradford City, where he made 27 appearances in total.

Although Wheatley scored only three senior goals during that period, he has now moved to the Championship. George said Lincoln City value Wheatley’s qualities rather than his previous goals and appearance statistics.

Speaking to The Stacey West, George said: “The second half of last season was difficult for Ethan, because he had a very good first half of the season at Northampton. Then he moved to a team pushing for promotion, but perhaps he did not achieve the success he wanted.”

“But we value his qualities rather than his numbers from last year, his goal tally, or his number of appearances in the second half of last season. What we see is pure pace, pure athleticism and top-level qualities.”

“He is an elite player. We do not need to watch too many of his games to understand the qualities he has. We believe those qualities can be fully developed here.”

When Lincoln City first announced the loan deal, George also said: “Due to some reasons beyond our control, the signing was delayed by a few weeks, so we are delighted to finally complete the deal.”

“Ethan can play anywhere across the forward line, and his technical qualities will add top-level athleticism, speed and technical ability to our attacking options.”

“We have followed Ethan since his first loan move to Walsall. After communicating with Manchester United staff and meeting Ethan in person, we know he has benefited from his previous loan experiences and is ready for this challenge.”

“He has the qualities, versatility, maturity and professionalism required to make an important contribution in the team’s attack.”