Kobbie Mainoo hit the headlines on Tuesday night after making his Manchester United debut against Charlton in the Carabao Cup.
The 17-year-old midfielder was given the nod by Erik ten Hag after impressing at United's recent winter training camp in Spain, which took place during the World Cup in Qatar. He also "did very well" in a friendly against Premier League rivals Everton.
Mainoo's selection against Charlton speaks volumes, as Ten Hag named a strong team on Tuesday night. The likes of Diogo Dalot, Antony, Scott McTominay, World Cup winner Lisandro Martinez and captain Harry Maguire were all given the nod at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag was asked why Mainoo was selected ahead of more established stars during his pre-match interview with MUTV. He replied: "The most important thing is to win this game and get into the next round. We want to get into the semi-finals, so it's a big game.
"For him [Mainoo], it's a great opportunity, he did very well during the winter camp in Spain. He also did very well against Everton in a friendly. He deserved to play, so I'm happy to give him the opportunity - it's about deserving it. He has to [be ready].
"We have to step up, I think we have a strong team today. Licha [Martinez], it's his first time back, but he's had some good training sessions and will be ready for this game. You always have to play your game, which means 100 per cent focus. 100 per cent energy, no matter who the opponent is. Always respect the opponent, but play your own game."
What did you make of Kobbie Mainoo's display against Charlton on Tuesday night? Let us know in the comments below!
Mainoo is the latest United academy graduate to break into the first team. He was part of the side that defeated Nottingham Forest in the FA Youth Cup final last season.
Alejandro Garnacho, another member of that team, has also established himself in Ten Hag's side this season. That's a good sign for Mainoo, as Garnacho has played 14 games for United since August and scored memorable winners against Real Sociedad and Fulham.
Mainoo was born in Stockport, a town in Greater Manchester, and joined the Red Devils at the age of nine. The talented midfielder has progressed through the club's famous academy and was rewarded with his first professional contract last May.
Mainoo has scored two goals and provided two assists in the Premier League 2 this season. He's also appeared three times in the EFL Trophy and was included on Ten Hag's bench for the Premier League fixtures against Newcastle and Wolves.
"It's not experience it's about, they have to deliver," said Ten Hag when asked about Mainoo's inclusion on his bench for the game against Newcastle in December. "You are here to contribute to the team, to the team's success, and that is why he is here."
Mainoo was described as "different class" by commentator Jonny Crowther following a pre-season friendly against Altrincham last summer and will be keen to verify that view over the coming weeks. United's next game is against Manchester City on Saturday.
