Shola Shoretire hit headlines two years ago when he became the youngest ever player in the UEFA Youth League at just 14.
The promising Manchester United talent is continuing to make waves in United’s academy.
After scoring in the FA Youth Cup last season, Shoretire has been pushed into a regular role for United’s under-23s.
Initially at the start of the season, Shoretire looked a little out of his depth as United suffered defeats to Leicester and Liverpool. He was even sent off in the latter for pushing an opponent.
So it has been really impressive to see how he has responded since.
Shoretire scored his first under-23 goal a fortnight ago against Brighton. It was a close range tap-in, but it seemed to lift his confidence.
In United’s 4-2 under-23 win over Tottenham on Sunday, Shoretire showed how he is growing into his role.
He scored his second under-23 goal by heading in Facundo Pellistri’s pinpoint cross.
His run into the box was well timed, and even then, he had a lot to do. Shoretire attacked the ball with conviction and buried a well-placed header.
Later in the half he provided an assist as United hit Spurs on the counter attack, with his pass playing in Arnau Puigmal.
Shoretire now has two goals and one assist for the under-23s, both in his last two matches.
He is beginning to show he belongs at this level, and United’s coaches will be delighted he is proving them right.
Shoretire is regarded as a special talent and United are pushing him. You have to challenge these players, and the youngster has been consistently elevated above his age group.
First team star of the future
Shoretire is a left winger and at the rate he is going, he could be pushing for the first team in a couple of years time, if not even earlier. United’s dearth of wing talent should open up a path for him.
For now, United will want to see more consistency from him at under-23 level.
He will need to start taking games over and really dominating them. That will come with time.
United will also be looking for a growth spurt from the diminutive talent, and to see how he handles that.
The progress he is making is fantastic so far. Shoretire turns 17 in February. United will be thrilled with the progress he is making.
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