Everton defender Ashley Young, 39, is on the verge of a unique career milestone as he prepares for the possibility of facing his 18-year-old son, Tyler Young, in the upcoming FA Cup third-round tie against Peterborough United.
The match, scheduled for Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Goodison Park, could see father and son competing on opposing teams—a rarity in professional football. Ashley, who has enjoyed a distinguished career with clubs including Manchester United and Inter Milan, expressed that such an encounter would surpass all his previous achievements. “If there was a possibility that we were able to play with each other or play against each other, it tops everything I’ve done in my career,” he remarked.
Tyler, a midfielder for Peterborough United, made his senior debut in October and is expected to be included in the squad for the FA Cup tie. He shares his father’s enthusiasm for the potential matchup, stating, “I wouldn’t even think about him being my dad. He’s just another opponent on the pitch who I can try to beat.”
The Young family has embraced the competitive spirit surrounding the possible face-off. Ashley acknowledged that most of the family, including his wife Nicky, are siding with Tyler and Peterborough for this fixture. Despite the familial rivalry, both father and son view the potential encounter as a significant and memorable event in their respective careers.
Peterborough United’s manager, Darren Ferguson, has confirmed Tyler’s inclusion on the substitutes’ bench, highlighting the young player’s talent and the influence of his father’s professional example. “He will be on the bench—not just because his dad is Ashley. I have nine subs, and there is a football reason to it as well,” Ferguson noted.
As the football world watches with anticipation, the potential father-son duel adds a compelling narrative to the FA Cup’s storied history, exemplifying the tournament’s capacity to deliver unique and heartfelt moments.
