Mason Greenwood became United's youngest starter in the Premier League era when making his full debut in last Sunday's finale against Cardiff City.
The 17-year-old striker showed plenty of promise, was very unlucky not to score after registering seven shots in total, and earned widespread praise afterwards for his performance.
Although there is always a clamour to blood talented teenagers, Butt, who climbed through the club's youth ranks himself, knows decisions are being taken to protect the long-term interest of the players, with Mason no exception.
Speaking to official club magazine Inside United, he said: “You’ve got to look at our Academy players as potential Manchester United players in the first team for 10-15 years.