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Manchester United Under-21s boss Adam Lawrence couldn’t hide his anticipation as he looked ahead to his side’s meeting with Real Madrid.

Blockbuster test

United Under-21s will host Madrid at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening, in the quarter-finals of the Premier League International Cup.

Lawrence’s side booked their place in the last eight after finishing second in Group D, behind Borussia Dortmund. The Red Devils secured victories over Athletic Club, Borussia Dortmund and Sporting CP.

It’s the first time that United have reached the quarter-finals since the 2018/19 season.

However, Madrid arguably pose the sternest challenge for United, as the Spanish club’s academy is undoubtedly among the world’s finest.

Lawrence spoke to the Manchester Evening News and insisted that the contest will be an “amazing occasion” for all concerned.

Lawrence looks ahead

He told the newspaper, “It will be an amazing occasion. You try to be humble, but to be involved in this type of fixture, and for the players to experience this type of game at Old Trafford, it’s fantastic.”

“The way we were talking, it would be a Grade A game where players are available. There aren’t too many games around it where it can...