Alejandro Garnacho and fellow youngsters laud Rhys Bennett after impressing against Real Betis

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Manchester United youngster Rhys Bennett impressed against La Liga side Real Betis after entering the fray inside the opening 20 minutes.

The 19-year-old, who captained Travis Binnion’s FA Youth Cup winning side last season, replaced the injured Teden Mengi who had to be stretchered off against Manuel Pellegrini’s side after suffering what looked like a hamstring injury.

Bennett slotted into defence alongside the experienced Victor Lindelof and he had David de Gea behind him in the first half before Tom Heaton replaced the Spaniard at half-time.

The teenager looked composed and at home playing against the Europa League side.

Playing under Erik ten Hag for the first time will be a massive moment in the youngster’s career, and it’ll be a landmark that will likely boost his confidence.

Alejandro Garnacho and fellow youngsters laud Rhys Bennett after impressing against Real Betis

Bennett has been pictured training with the United first team at Carrington several times, but he’s yet to make his first team bow for the twenty-time league champions.

But given Mengi’s latest injury setback, Bennett could well have bumped himself up the centre-back pecking order given his flawless display in Seville.

Ten Hag has always placed his trust in youth if he believes players are worthy of the chance and grasp the opportunity when handed to them.

Following Bennett’s first appearance with Ten Hag’s side, United’s number 66 took to Instagram to share his delight in achieving his dream.

Heaton labelled Bennett’s performance against Betis as “excellent” and the veteran was impressed with how Bennett tackled the challenge of being thrown into action against a top European side.

Bennett’s teammates including Alejandro Garnacho shared their delight in the youngster shining in Spain with comments on his Instagram post.

Tyler Fredricson, who came on at half-time against Cadiz, commented: “Top from you”.

While Harry Maguire could return to partner Lindelof in the heart of United’s defence in the Carabao Cup fourth-round clash against Burnley in ten days time, Bennett could be rewarded with a place on the bench against the Clarets.