Why ex-Tottenham star Tom Huddlestone, 37, was able to play for Man United's U21

Man United U21 player-coach Tom Huddlestone rolled back the years to score the winner in the team's 2-1 win against rivals Man City, leaving plenty of fans scratching their heads.

The former Tottenham and Derby County midfielder, 37, popped up with the goal to seal victory for the Red Devils' youth side - and he is still going strong on the pitch having made his debut in 2003, before any player in the City squad was even born.

In fact, the only player on the pitch who was born before Huddlestone's professional debut was goalkeeper Dermot William Mee in 2002.

Ethan Wheatley had given United the lead 35 minutes into the game thanks to Ethan Williams' assist, before Huddlestone made it two shortly after the second half begun - with the ex-England international being picked out by Williams from a corner and rifling into the corner.

Stephen Mfuni then pulled one back for the Cityzens on the hour mark, though Travis Binnion's side held out for the victory despite Sam Mather's red card.

Fans immediately took to social media after being left baffled by how Huddersfield was able to be included after playing such an influential part in the game - despite featuring 15 times last season for the age group, as well as playing the last four matches in this campaign.

Huddlestone, who joined United's U21 side as a player-coach in 2022 to replace Paul McShane, was able to play because of a rule which allows teams to field one goalkeeper over the age limit and up to five outfield players over 21.

Huddlestone is also able to represent the U21s in EFL Trophy competitions, in addition to Premier League 2.

The veteran, who started his career with boyhood club Derby, is best known for his stint at Spurs, where he made 209 appearances, scoring 15