Manchester United chairman Ed Woodward "delighted" by emergence of young talent

 Ed Woodward prepare to ring the Opening Bell at the New York Stock Exchange on August 10, 2012
© Getty Images
Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward says that the club are "delighted" by the emergence of young talent this season.

Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward has claimed that the club are "delighted" that a crop of young players have filtered through to the first team this season.

The Red Devils have had an inconsistent campaign on the pitch, while off it there have been rumours that manager Louis van Gaal could be sacked this summer.

United failed to produce a title challenge and fell at the group-stage hurdle in the Champions League, but Woodward has opted to draw on the positives of player development and the team's progression into the FA Cup final.

Marcus Rashford is one player who has impressed this season as the 18-year-old has scored seven goals since making his debut at the end of February.

Within the announcement of United's latest financial figures, Woodward, who avoided mentioning Van Gaal, said: "The conclusion to this year's season demonstrates once again why the Premier League is the most popular league in the most popular sport.

"As we reflect on our season, we are delighted by the emergence of yet another crop of exciting young players that demonstrate once again our terrific track record of youth development.

"We are looking forward to the FA Cup final on May 21 and hopefully winning this special trophy for a record-equalling 12 times."

The North-West club have announced record quarterly revenues of £123.4m, which is an increase of 29.9% year on year, and they have also become the first British club to earn more than £500m in one year.

United need to beat Bournemouth on Sunday and hope that Manchester City lose to Swansea City in order to finish in the top four this season.

Jose Mourinho and Louis van Gaal pictured in 2010
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