Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has often turned to academy youngsters in the early stages of this season.

The likes of Jesse Lingard, Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and Andreas Pereira have featured of the first team while Axel Tuanzebe, Marcus Rashford and Sean Goss have all been part of matchday squads under the Dutchman.

Talented midfielder Josh Harrop has seen some of his closest academy colleagues involved with the Red Devils first team and is now hoping he can impress van Gaal enough to be given an opportunity alongside the likes of Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata, David De Gea and Chris Smalling.

"A few of the lads have been involved in it this season and that's my aim," he told MUTV.

"That's what I'm here for. I want to train hard and get a chance. Cameron came on for 20 minutes recently and that's the aim for any young lad at United.

"I've been training before a few of the Champions League games and been in and out when we've needed players coming over. It's great getting asked and good experience to be with the first team.

"It's nice to get involved and for the manager to see you. A few of the first-team players I speak to and get along with always help you settle in."

Local boy Harrop has missed part of the season with various injuries but insists he is doing his utmost to show he has what it takes to represent his boyhood club.

"I'm working hard and am keeping my body strong in the gym to prevent any other injuries," he added.

"I'm getting back to full fitness and want to train with the first team a few times again, impressing the manager, and maybe getting a chance."