Did Man Utd make a 'mistake' loaning out Wheatley?

Ethan Wheatley's two-goal contribution in Manchester United's Premier League 2 play-off victory against Everton last night was a bit of a head scratcher.

Firstly, what was Wheatley doing there because he is currently on loan at League Two promotion chasers Walsall?

Secondly, the sight of him leading the line and taking his chances poses questions for Walsall and Manchester United.

Wheatley has made four appearances for the Saddlers since his loan move in January, but he has only featured for 16 minutes since 1 February.

Walsall agreed to let him play for United at Leigh Sports Village last night to ensure he was game-ready if called upon for the final two games of their campaign, which could be extended by the play-offs.

But United could be forgiven for feeling the loan itself was a mistake.

Walsall have gone 12 games without a win and gone from title certainties to automatic promotion outsiders. If Wheatley is not getting a significant opportunity in that run, is it ever going to happen?

Meanwhile, Manchester United are desperate for a striker to take some of the load off Rasmus Hojlund, now that Joshua Zirkzee is injured.

Chido Obi, 17, is now a regular first-team squad member for domestic matches but Wheatley, 19, is a bit older and a bit stronger.

Crucially, he could have been added to Ruben Amorim's squad for their Europa League games as a 'B list' player.

Wheatley will learn a lot about the uncertainties of life as a professional footballer from his time at Walsall, but this half of the season could have been so much more for the youngster.