born and raised in hertfordshire, young started his career at watford and made his first senior appearance in 2003 under manager ray lewington. he became a first team regular in 2004–05 and was one of watford's key players in their promotion-winning 2005–06 season. in january 2007, he transferred to aston villa for an initial fee of £8 million where he won the pfa young player of the year award in 2009. in june 2011, young signed with manchester united for a fee of around £17 million. he won five trophies at united, including the premier league in 2013, the fa cup in 2016 and the europa league in 2017. in january 2020, young signed for inter milan.