Man Utd Loanees Grind It Out: Ennis Crosses Galore, Blundell Battles in Derby Heartache

Picture this: while your favourite Man United lads were kicking back during the international break, a couple of their loanees were out there grafting in the lower leagues and women's game. Yeah, no sun-soaked getaways for these lads and lasses. We're talking Ethan Ennis whipping in crosses like a budget version of Antony, and Hannah Blundell holding her own in a proper Merseyside scrap.

As reported by The Peoples Person on OneFootball, these Red Devils on loan kept the flag flying. Let's dive into their weekend wares, shall we? Grab your half-time pint, and I'll break it down like we're chatting tactics over a pie at Old Trafford.

Ethan Ennis: Crossing King in League Two Stalemate

First up, the 21-year-old winger Ethan Ennis, who's been shipped out to Fleetwood Town to get some proper minutes under his belt. With the Cod Army hosting Swindon Town, Ennis went the full 90 minutes in a gritty 1-1 draw. Bloke was everywhere down that flank.

He pinged in a whopping 12 crosses – that's more than some Prem wingers manage in a month of Sundays! Sadly, only two found a red shirt, but credit where it's due: he notched one key pass and completed 71% of his passes overall. It's like he's got the vision, just needs the delivery van to show up more often.

Shooting-wise, Ennis had three efforts – one saved, one blocked, and the other probably still orbiting Earth. Defensively, he bossed five duels but came a cropper on both tackle attempts. Solid shift from the kid, though. Reminds you of those raw United prospects who could break through if Ten Hag gives 'em a sniff.

Next up for Ennis and Fleetwood? A tasty trip to Bristol Rovers on Good Friday. If he nails those crosses, who knows – might bag an assist and have Fergie-time nostalgia buzzing.

Hannah Blundell: Gritty Derby Display for Everton Ladies

Switching to the women's side, Hannah Blundell was flying the flag for Everton Women in the cauldron of the Merseyside derby. The full-back racked up 86 minutes but couldn't prevent a 2-3 heartbreak against Liverpool at Progress with Unity Stadium. Tough gig facing your neighbours, especially when you're on loan from Man United.

Blundell was no passenger, mind. She nailed her sole tackle attempt, whipped in one clearance, and won two ground duels. Got caught out by a dribble once, but who hasn't in a derby? Attacking flair? Spot on – she completed her only dribble and looked dangerous overlapping.

Passing was a bit ropey at 76% completion, and no shots on target in that nail-biter. Still, in a match that swung like a pub swingometer, she showed why United rate her. Proper warrior stuff.

Everton's lasses regroup for a monster clash with Chelsea on 26th April. Blundell could be key if they want to climb the FA Women's Super League table.

Loanees: The Unsung Heroes of United's Squad Rotation

In a season where United's first-teamers are juggling injuries and Europa dreams, these loanees are the real MVPs of development. Ennis honing his end product at EFL League Two level, Blundell toughening up in the WSL – it's textbook Ten Hag youth policy.

Humour me here: Ennis's crossing stats are like that mate who always promises to pass the crisps but eats half first. Blundell? She's the defender you'd want in a pub brawl – all heart, no nonsense. If either cracks back into Carrington fit, we might see 'em in a cup tie before you know it.

Keep an eye on United's loan tracker (as per The Peoples Person's original scoop) – with the schedule ramping up, these stories could turn into first-team gold. What's your take? Ennis for the breakthrough, or Blundell leading the women's charge? Sound off in the comments, you lot.

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