Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has heaped praise on Willy Kambwala ahead of the Premier League clash against Aston Villa at Old Trafford tonight.
The Red Devils have dropped down the league table over the past few weeks. The club have picked up just one point from the previous three outings.
They will be aiming to return to winning ways against the Villans later today. Ahead of the game, Ten Hag had plenty to say in his pre-match press conference.
One of the topics was on Kambwala, who had a good debut against West Ham United after deputising in central defence for the absent Raphael Varane.
Ten Hag said that he was very solid in his senior debut for the club and has a ‘very bright future’. He added that he was ‘very pleased’ with his performance.
The manager said via Manutd.com: “I think he has shown he has the capabilities. I think his performance was very solid. You can see has a very bright future. Of course he has to work on himself, but you can see his potential and we are very pleased, I think, with his performance.”
Kambwala could have bright future at Man Utd
United had a big defensive crisis last weekend with Varane being ruled out with illness. Kambwala started in central defence and produced a credible display despite the 2-0 loss.
The 19-year-old started confidently against the Hammers with an adventurous run forward. In his 84 minutes, he had 92 touches, completing an impressive 75 passes.
The 6ft 4in ace looked composed at the back and did not have much to do on his side. He is likely to return to the bench tonight with Varane anticipated to make the XI.
Varane produced a world-class performance against Liverpool at Anfield with 15 clearances. He also won 100 per cent of his aerial duels and controlled the proceedings.
It was unfortunate that he was absent for the London trip. United will be hoping that the Frenchman can produce a similar defensive showing against an in-form Villa side.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
