Manchester United U21s dug deep to secure a 1-1 draw against Derby County in the Premier League 2 at Leigh Sports Village on Friday evening.

Coach Adam Lawrence named a strong starting line-up, including goalkeeper Ely Harrison, Habeeb Ogunneye and Sonny Aljofree, all of whom were recalled from their loan spells last month.

United started the game on the front foot with Diego Leon forcing Jack Thompson to make his first save, before Malachi Sharpe spurned two consecutive chances.

In the 17th minute, Sharpe came close with a shot from inside the area, but Thompson produced a big save to keep out his effort.

Moments later, Derby went ahead as Sharpe was caught ball-watching, allowing Justin Oguntolu to head Isaac Gordon’s cross into the net.

There were chances at both ends late in the first half.

Harrison made two consecutive saves to keep United in the game, before Jack Moorehouse and Chido Obi threatened at the other end.

The young Reds started the second half strongly, with Leon’s header scooped off the line by Thompson in the 52nd minute.

Derby were reduced to 10 men just after the hour mark as Marsel Tola...