Ashley Young, 39, spent years crafting a reputation as one of England’s most versatile players, winning trophies in England and Italy and representing his country at the highest level. Tonight, he could find himself on the same pitch as his 18-year-old son, Tyler, when Everton host Peterborough in the third round of the FA Cup. Father against son in this tournament has never happened in its 154-year history.
Tyler joined Peterborough after stints at Arsenal, MK Dons, and Queens Park Rangers. He made his senior debut in October, a late cameo that offered only a glimpse of his potential. His journey has not always been smooth, and he admits, “I wouldn’t say it’s been an easy journey, it’s been a bumpy road but having him is always a good thing to be able to go to if I need help.” He will likely start on the bench, but even the chance of sharing the field with his father has already ignited imaginations.
An Unprecedented FA Cup Moment
Ashley, a 2016 FA Cup winner with Manchester United, has long dreamed of playing alongside or opposite his son. “I’ve said it for a numerous amount of years that if there was a possibility we was able to play with each other or play against each other, it tops everything I’ve done in my career,” he says. He also jokes there will be no soft spots. “That just wouldn’t happen, as soon as the game comes, as soon as the whistle blows, it’s just another opponent, another enemy and we’ll both be looking to go out and win the game.”
Sporting history includes memorable father-son pairings, from Rivaldo taking the field with Rivaldinho in Brazil to Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. belting back-to-back homers in Major League Baseball. LeBron James and Bronny have even showcased their bond in the NBA. It would echo that same familial spirit if Tyler and Ashley cross paths in this FA Cup tie. But unlike those moments, which often brought tears of joy, this encounter comes in a knockout match where each side needs the victory. One will be fighting for a Cup run, the other for respect, and each for something deeply personal.
Even without guaranteed minutes, the sense of anticipation is palpable. Both Youngs have circled this date, imagining how it might feel to clash over a 50-50 ball or exchange a glance before a corner kick. Tonight, if the opportunity arises, father and son will stand on opposite sides of history, united by more than just a last name.
